On Tuesday, USA faced Uruguay in a thrilling friendly match, emerging victorious with a remarkable score of 5-1 at the Raymond James Stadium. The home team showcased their attacking strength with goals from Sebastian Berhalter (16’), Alexander Freeman (19’ and 30’), Diego Luna (41’), and Tanner Tessmann (67’). Uruguay’s only goal came from Giorgian De Arrascaeta just before halftime (45’).
Uruguay had a chance to narrow the gap when Giorgian De Arrascaeta’s shot hit the post in the 28th minute, leaving them frustrated.
Alexander Freeman stood out as the star of the match, contributing significantly to the team’s success with two goals to his name.
Another key performer for USA was Sebastian Berhalter, who scored one and made two attempts on goal throughout the match.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino adopted a 3-6-1 formation, with Matthew Freese in goal; a defensive line of Alexander Freeman, Mark McKenzie, and Auston Trusty; a midfield of Sergiño Dest, Aidan Morris, Sebastian Berhalter, John Tolkin, Timothy Tillman, and Diego Luna; and Haji Wright leading the attack.
Meanwhile, Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Cristopher Fiermarín in goal; Nahitan Nández, Ronald Araújo, Mathías Olivera, and Matías Viña in defense; Rodrigo Bentancur, Manuel Ugarte, Rodrigo Zalazar, Giorgian De Arrascaeta, and Maximiliano Araujo in midfield; and Federico Viñas up front.
The match was officiated by referee Julio Luna.
USA will enjoy a break in this competition, while Uruguay has no scheduled matches as they also have a free date.
Substitutions for the USA
60’ 2T – Haji Wright was replaced by Folarin Balogun, Sergiño Dest by Tanner Tessmann, and Diego Luna by Gio Reyna.
74’ 2T – John Tolkin made way for Max Arfsten, and Timothy Tillman was substituted by Brenden Aaronson.
88’ 2T – Alexander Freeman was replaced by Cristian Roldan.
Yellow Cards for the USA:
26’ 2T – Gio Reyna (Holding an opponent to stop progress) and 30’ 2T – Folarin Balogun (Unsportsmanlike conduct).
Substitutions for Uruguay
45’ 2T – Matías Viña was substituted for Joaquín Piquerez, Federico Viñas for Rodrigo Aguirre, and Rodrigo Zalazar for Brian Rodríguez.
66’ 2T – Giorgian De Arrascaeta was replaced by Emiliano Martínez.
71’ 2T – Maximiliano Araujo made way for Facundo Torres.
Yellow Cards for Uruguay:
3’ 2T – Rodrigo Bentancur (Unsportsmanlike conduct) and 36’ 2T – Rodrigo Aguirre (Unsportsmanlike conduct).
Red Card for Uruguay:
18’ 2T – Rodrigo Bentancur (Direct red).