USMNT World Cup Player Ratings: Sebastian Berhalter Breaks Out, Christian Pulisic Provides Bench Spark

The United States men’s national team wrapped up its World Cup group-stage campaign on Thursday with a 3-2 loss to Turkiye, a result that had no impact on the standings. The Americans still finished Group D with six points and now move on to a round-of-32 matchup against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday.

The defeat denied the U.S. a first-ever clean sweep of its group-stage matches. Even against a Turkiye side that had already been eliminated, the contest presented some difficult moments for a heavily rotated lineup selected by Mauricio Pochettino. Still, the Americans will view the match as a useful test and a chance to sharpen details before the knockout rounds begin.

So, how did the U.S. players fare in the finale? Here are our player ratings:

Allowed three goals and never appeared fully settled between the posts. That said, the back line did him few favors, particularly on Turkiye’s third goal.

Delivered a memorable early moment by scoring his first USMNT goal with a well-taken finish. On the other end, however, he struggled to find consistency and was beaten too often defensively. He also appeared to roll his ankle late in the match.

Late to react and sometimes a step slow. The effort is there, but he’s not pushing for a starting spot anytime soon. USMNT’s defense struggled and he was a big part of it.

Embraced the physical nature of Turkiye but lacked the technical ability to stay toe-to-toe with their best attacking players. Arder Guler feasted on this back line.

Brought the energy and had some positive moments going forward. Captained the team and sat deep in the middle. Solid but not in the spot where he can be best. He’ll welcome the return of midfield partner Tyler Adams.

Very quiet. Had a couple decent balls in but nothing more. A far cry from what we saw off the bench versus Paraguay. Once again didn’t seize an opportunity for more minutes.

Stock is rising with a goal and an assist. The truth is, he can hit a ball. Great accuracy on his corner and boy did he hit his goal sweetly with a low rocket. May just be the guy off the bench.

Quiet for most of the match. Didn’t get the looks he would have wanted in the attacking third in the first half. Could have been more useful if he was a bit more central. Missed an open rebound in second half. He’s great at annoying the opposition by pressing, but doesn’t bring much else.

Almost forgot he was playing, to be honest. Was more involved early in the second half but was a little delayed in making his runs. A classic case of a shoot first striker starved for service.

Not a night to remember. His touch was off, his awareness was too. The only thing he did effectively was play the ball backwards, out of trouble. When the striker doesn’t touch the ball odds on bet is that the wingers struggled to get it to him

Subs

Super lively off the bench. Created trouble and nearly scored a golazo with his left foot. It’s good to have him back from injury.

Came off the bench and was decent, but got caught helping others on the winning goal, leaving his player unmarked at the back post.

Came off the bench and had just eight touches. Did create a chance.

Like the energy he brings off the bench. Can really go at players and needed a run out.

Late sub who barely got to touch the ball.