For the US men’s national soccer team, 2025 was a year marked by uncertainty regarding their capabilities to perform in a World Cup hosted on home soil. The team struggled with scoring and defense, lacking a coherent identity under the new management of Mauricio Pochettino. However, a pivotal moment came in September when Tristan Blackmon, Tim Ream, and Chris Richards played together in a three-man backline during a friendly match against Japan, leading to a 2-0 win and igniting an unbeaten streak to end the year.

Ream expressed his appreciation for this tactical change on the CBS Sports Golazo podcast, stating:

“I think it was a stroke of genius to have three center backs. But in doing that, I think it unlocked the thought of guys being able to play in a fluid four for whatever reason; when we went to three center backs, we seemed a lot more comfortable.”

This adjustment improved the team’s defensive stability and allowed fullbacks to advance further up the pitch, enhancing support for players like Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun in attacking positions. Ream highlighted the importance of tactical flexibility, saying:

“Flexibility gives us incredible options to change on the fly in game… it gives guys a better understanding of what everybody needs, but it gives them a better understanding of positionally where they should be at all times.”

The changes were essential, especially in the absence of key player Tyler Adams. Pochettino’s commitment to adapting the formation underscored the need for a custom fit rather than forcing ineffective strategies, ensuring the team could thrive with the best personnel available. As Pochettino explores his options while Adams recovers from an injury, he has demonstrated that the USMNT is well on its path to achieving success ahead of the World Cup.