The USMNT October window marked an important checkpoint for Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT. As he continues to shape his squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, time is running out to evaluate players and build chemistry.
After a mixed September window that left fans and media members wondering if he was the right guy for the job the October friendlies between Ecuador and Australia proved to calm nerves and restore a bit of faith, if only for a moment.
As supporters look for signs that this team is evolving and progressing, here are the winners, losers & key performers across the USMNT October window.
USMNT October Window Winners
Folarin Balogun
Folarin Balogun was the headline of the window on this USMNT roster.
He netted the equaliser in the 71st minute after a clever sequence involving Malik Tillman and a defensive turnover in the USA vs Ecuador. His performance reinforced his case to lead the U.S. attack in a crowded position that no one has taken hold of yet.
His movement, pressing, and willingness to run behind Ecuador’s backline gave the defense trouble all night and is exactly the bite that the U.S. has lacked. If he can continue to stay healthy, he is a sure lock for the starting No. 9 role.
Malik Tillman
MalikTillman’s assist for Balogun’s goal was a clean, incisive pass that broke Ecuador’s defensive line and is exactly what the build-up play has needed for the USMNT.
He showed a good understanding of timing and positioning, traits the U.S. will need in the buildup phase going forward. He, too, has likely secured his role in the USMNT World Cup squad.
Aidan Morris
Aidan Morris showed composure and control in helping stabilize transitions and linking play against Ecuador.
He played just as you’d expect if you have followed his career from Columbus Crew to Middlesbrough.
A constant engine and maximum effort to leave everything he has on the field. This is definitely something Poch appreciates and is the type of energy that the USMNT may be missing.
But did he do enough to earn himself a call-up come 2026? Only time will tell.
Cristian Roldan
Another player with an engine is Cristian Roldan of the Seattle Sounders. He assisted twice in the USA vs Australia match, both to Haji Wright, another winner of the USMNT October Window.
Like Morris, Roldan should be on Poch’s radar to make the team as an unselfish, hardworking player who will run his heart out for the team.
Haji Wright
Haji Wright got the start in vs Australia, and did he take advantage of the situation! He has been on fire for his club, Coventry City who play in the Championship in England, and he brought that with him to the national team.
His movement was great and his left-footed curling finish after a great ball from Roldan might have taken him from the fringes of the team to pushing to be second behind Balogun.
Of course, Pepi is also eyeing that spot. What comes of the striker position in the coming windows will be intriguing, to say the least.
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USMNT October Window Losers
Fullback / Wingback Flanks
In this window, the flanks weren’t consistent threats and often left gaps (especially when wingbacks pushed forward). Tim Weah, in an unfamiliar advanced role, had moments but also left space behind him.
He was once a lock starter and making all kinds of waves on the field. Unfortunately, now he seems like a shell of the player he could have been. The wide transitions will need refinement especially if the 3 back system is here to stay.
Pulisic Injury
In a time where the team wants to build momentum going into the final stretch before the 2026 World Cup, not having the best player – Christian Pulisic – in the pool healthy.
Chemistry and form will play a huge role in tournaments like the World Cup, and we have yet to see the strongest potential roster for the U.S. on the field together due to injury.
Big Takeaways
The first big takeaway is that Balogun is delivering when given chances, which is giving fans some hope. The question of who will step up to snatch the starting striker role is slowly becoming more and more clear. But we continue to wait to see who will step up as the number 2 option, and Haji Wright made a strong case.
The U.S. must improve dynamics on the flanks. This is the position that can bring creativity in the final third and support on defense. But who will it be? Dest, Weah, and Arfsten all have great offensive traits, but that may leave the defense out to dry.
There is a sense that the team is building momentum from the last window into the October window. Fans can feel the team improving, and that has to be the best takeaway from these two matches. Hopefully, the team can continue their run in November.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire
Recording Date: 08.09.2025