Player Ratings: USMNT Fall to Panama in Nations League Semifinal

The US Men’s National Team experienced another setback reminiscent of Copa America, losing 1-0 to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal. This defeat means there will be a new champion this year. Despite creating opportunities, the USMNT struggled against a resilient Panama team. While some difficulties were anticipated due to injuries limiting the available player pool, this game highlighted ongoing concerns about team depth as the journey to the 2026 World Cup progresses.

The USMNT started with an unusual lineup, featuring Yunus Musah as a right wing-back. Here’s a breakdown of each player’s performance in the match, position by position.

GK Matt Turner (90 minutes)

Turner had a relatively quiet game overall. Panama’s goal by Cecilio Waterman was exceptionally placed, making it nearly impossible for Turner to save.
Rating: 5

DEF Joe Scally (90 minutes)

Scally showed promise with overlapping runs alongside Pulisic and Weah on the flanks. However, he wasn’t quick enough to react when Waterman received the ball and attacked the US goal. Playing out of his usual position at left back, this game further emphasized the team’s need for Antonee Robinson.
Rating: 4

DEF Tim Ream (90 minutes)

Ream delivered another dependable defensive performance. He maintained a consistent presence without significant errors, though lacked standout moments. The team could benefit greatly from a younger player with Ream’s qualities.
Rating: 6

DEF Chris Richards (79 minutes)

Richards had a challenging game, struggling with possession at times, forcing Tyler Adams to cover for his mistakes. He was substituted after sustaining an injury and already on a yellow card.
Rating: 5

MID Yunus Musah (90 minutes)

Musah’s versatility might be a double-edged sword. While his pressing was effective, the team could have used a player with better crossing ability on the wing to deliver quality balls into the penalty area.
Rating: 6

MID Tyler Adams (90 minutes)

Adams was the standout player for the USMNT. His return to the field was crucial in intercepting opponent plays and cleaning up errors. Despite the disappointing result, Adams’ presence is a significant positive for the USMNT’s future.
Rating: 7

MID Tanner Tessman (68 minutes)

Tessman’s performance was adequate, maintaining ball circulation in a deep midfield role. However, he isn’t the type of player to break lines against a defensively positioned team. The midfield setup did not particularly suit his strengths.
Rating: 6

MID Weston McKennie (90 minutes)

McKennie positioned himself well and generated some chances, but couldn’t convert them. Another issue was midfield balance, as McKennie is not naturally a number 10 playmaker.
Rating: 6

FWD Christian Pulisic (90 minutes)

Facing a deep defensive line, Pulisic’s difficulty in getting shots off is somewhat understandable. However, managing only one shot in the entire match is insufficient. When Pulisic struggles to influence the game, the USMNT’s attacking prospects diminish considerably.
Rating: 5

FWD Tim Weah (90 minutes)

Weah worked to create opportunities from the wings, but like Pulisic, he needed to take more shots. Known for his willingness to shoot from various positions, being more assertive could have pressured Panama’s defense.
Rating: 6

FWD Josh Sargent (68 minutes)

This match seemed like a key opportunity for Sargent to solidify his position as the starting striker. However, with only eight touches and one shot that hit the post, he didn’t seize it. While the USMNT’s struggle to penetrate Panama’s defense wasn’t solely Sargent’s fault, he required more support.
Rating: 6

Substitutes

MID Jack McGlynn: McGlynn came off the bench and distributed passes effectively, adding a different dimension to the midfield. (22 minutes; Rating: 6)

FWD Patrick Agyemang: Agyemang could have had a memorable night with two chances to potentially win the game. His impact was positive, but he needs to convert these opportunities to climb the striker ranks. (22 minutes; Rating: 5)

DEF Mark McKenzie: McKenzie entered late in the game to replace Richards and had limited time to make a significant impact. (22 minutes; Rating 5)