MATCH PREVIEW: USMNT vs. URUGUAY — A CHANCE AT REVENGE IN TAMPA

Nov 18, 2025 39 Views US SOCCER

The U.S. Men’s National Team closes out the November international window in Tampa with one of its biggest challenges of the year — a showdown against Uruguay at Raymond James Stadium. With momentum building and revenge in the air, the Stars and Stripes look to make a statement against a World Cup–bound South American force.

USMNT ENTERS ON A HIGH

Mauricio Pochettino’s squad arrives in excellent form, riding a two-match win streak for the first time since the Concacaf Gold Cup. The U.S. earned a 2–1 victory over Paraguay last week, highlighted by strong performances from Gio Reyna and Folarin Balogun, both of whom found the back of the net.

What makes the U.S. surge even more impressive is the number of star absences. Despite missing key veterans and young standouts, the group has shown maturity, composure, and attacking sharpness — all encouraging signs with the 2026 FIFA World Cup just months away.

URUGUAY: UNBEATEN AND RELOADED

Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay arrives undefeated in their last five matches, most recently playing Mexico to a scoreless draw. La Celeste have already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, and under Bielsa, they’ve embraced a high-energy, disciplined style that has made them difficult for any opponent to break down.

Uruguay’s recent form includes wins over Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Uzbekistan, along with draws against Chile and Mexico. They have been consistent, organized, and quietly efficient — traits that will test a U.S. team eager to measure itself against a top-tier opponent.

REVENGE ON THE LINE

There’s extra spice to this matchup.

The last meeting between these nations came on July 1, 2024, when Uruguay eliminated the U.S. from the Copa América in the group stage with a 1–0 win. That result still stings, and Tuesday night offers the Americans a chance to respond.