The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is gonna face Japan with a back three formation. The lineup has got players like Tristan Blackmon and Folarin Balogun who been doing real good lately. The team’s got some old pros mixed with new guys coming up trying to make a strong team that can move good.
- USMNT’s going with a back three formation against Japan.
- Tristan Blackmon and Folarin Balogun are big parts of the lineup.
- The team’s got both experienced guys and new talent.
Defensive Setup
The USMNT defense is held down by Matt Freese, Tristan Blackmon and Chris Richards. Freese who’s the main goalkeeper has been really good especially in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Tristan Blackmon from Vancouver Whitecaps is getting noticed cause of how good he’s playing for his club. Chris Richards who plays regular at Crystal Palace brings different skills and experience. Tim Ream who’s now with Charlotte FC brings that older player leadership.
USMNT go with a back three tonight against Japan
Freese; Blackmon, Richards, Ream; Freeman, Adams, Roldan, Arfsten; Pulisic, Zendejas; Balogun https://t.co/M2LacZFJmR
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert)
September 09, 2025
Midfield Dynamics
In the middle Tyler Adams from AFC Bournemouth leads with how he defends and leads the team. His move from RB Leipzig to playing in the Premier League has made him better. Alex Freeman and Cristian Roldan bring lots of energy, with Roldan being real important for the Seattle Sounders. Max Arfsten who’s newer to the USMNT brings good skills and can make plays, helping both defend and attack.
Offensive Firepower
Up front there’s Christian Pulisic from AC Milan who knows how to make plays and score goals. He plays with Alejandro Zendejas from Club América who’s known for being good at attacking. Folarin Balogun who’s back at AS Monaco after fixing his shoulder adds a lot of scoring power. Everyone’s been talking about Balogun choosing to play for the US instead of England especially after how good he’s been playing in Monaco’s big games. Him playing with Pulisic and Zendejas should make the team real good at attacking.
