Pulisic Performance is Encouraging, but Questions Remain as US Defeats Senegal 3-2 – by Zaven Aharonian
(May 31, 2026) – The U.S. Men’s National Team delivered a much-needed boost of optimism with a 3-2 victory over Senegal in Charlotte, showing significantly more energy and attacking quality than we saw during the disappointing March international window.
The biggest positive was undoubtedly the performance of Christian Pulisic. After enduring a lengthy goal drought with the national team, Pulisic looked sharp, confident, and influential throughout the first half. He assisted on Sergiño Dest’s opening goal and later scored a well-taken goal of his own, reminding everyone why he remains the team’s most important attacking player.
Just as encouraging was the overall attacking approach. The U.S. moved the ball with purpose, created chances through combination play, and looked far more dangerous in the final third than they did against Portugal and Belgium. Ricardo Pepi was particularly active before halftime, while Folarin Balogun added the winning goal in the second half.
For supporters who have been concerned about the team’s trajectory heading into a home World Cup, there were finally some tangible reasons for optimism.
That said, the match also highlighted several concerns that have yet to be resolved.
Defensive mistakes continue to undermine otherwise positive performances. Both of Senegal’s goals came from avoidable errors, allowing Sadio Mané to capitalize on situations that should have been managed more effectively. The U.S. once again struggled to maintain defensive discipline around halftime, an issue that has surfaced repeatedly in recent matches.
The goalkeeper competition also remains unsettled. While Matt Turner started the match, neither he nor the other candidates have firmly established themselves as the clear first choice heading into the tournament.
Perhaps the most important takeaway is that the U.S. finally looked more like a team with belief and attacking identity. Pochettino’s group played with greater urgency, intensity, and confidence than they had shown in recent outings. Yet stronger opponents at the World Cup will punish the kinds of defensive lapses that Senegal was able to exploit.
As a supporter, this performance feels like a step in the right direction rather than definitive proof that all concerns have been addressed. Pulisic’s return to form, the improved attacking cohesion, and the result itself should provide valuable confidence. However, defensive consistency and game management remain critical areas that must improve if the United States hopes to make a meaningful run this summer.
The victory was encouraging. The performance was promising. But the work is far from finished.
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