Reyna Shines in Return as USMNT Extends unbeaten Streak to Four
ASUNCION, Paraguay – gio Reyna made an impactful return to the U.S. Men’s national Team lineup, contributing to a hard-fought draw against Paraguay and extending the USMNT’s unbeaten run to four matches. The game, marked by physicality and a late-game scuffle, showcased a resilient U.S. side continuing to build momentum under manager Mauricio Pochettino.
The match in Asunción saw a spirited performance from reyna,his first appearance after a period of limited playing time. While the score remained level, the game’s intensity escalated in stoppage time, culminating in a bench-clearing altercation sparked by a contested throw-in involving Paraguay’s Gustavo Gomez and U.S. defender Alex Freeman. Only one red card was issued, to Paraguay’s Omar Alderete, who wasn’t even on the field at the time.
“There were a few cheap shots thrown from their end to be honest,” said U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese,highlighting the aggressive nature of the contest. “But it’s part of being a team,and we’re going to be standing up for each other no matter the moment…That’s what it means to be a team,and I don’t think I’ve ever moved that quickly getting in there.”
Pochettino emphasized the importance of continued advancement as the team prepares for future challenges. “Big credit, but that is not enough,” he stated. “We need to keep going because we need to improve, improve, improve, and arrive to the World Cup in our best, in our peak. And that shows that it’s not about the name, it’s about the team, it’s about the collective, it’s about the idea of the altogether.”
The U.S. faces another challenging test on Tuesday against Uruguay, a team known for it’s physicality and skill, fresh off a 0-0 draw against Mexico. Reyna is expected to be fully fit and eager to solidify his place in the squad as the USMNT continues its preparations for the upcoming World Cup.
