Alexi Lalas' Top 5 U.S. Players With the Most to Gain at Gold Cup

The 26 players currently representing the United States are trying to win this Gold Cup.

But let’s call it as it is – this is also an audition to make the 2026 World Cup squad. So when opportunity knocks, you better answer. And for a handful of U.S. players on this squad, this is time to make the most of these games.

Here are the ones with the most to gain as the U.S. prepares for the Gold Cup knockout stage: 

#1 Chris Richards

previously unranked

Defender

I don't think anyone's going to disagree. He hasn't put a foot wrong in the tournament. He's doing what he has to from a defensive standpoint and in the attack, getting the game-winning goal against Saudi Arabia.

#2 Malik Tillman

previously unranked

Midfielder

He had two goals in the first game and a really good second half in the second game. So, for three out of four halves, he was wonderful.

#3 Sebastian Berhalter

previously unranked

Midfielder

He's consistent. I love his fire on the field, and let's be honest: from a set-piece perspective, I think he's better than Christian Pulisic.

#4 Patrick Agyemang

Previously ranked: 2

Forward

Defenders have to care about him as a striker. He's not a finished product by any stretch of the imagination — I know it's a low bar — but there's not a lot of options at striker for this U.S. team. 

#5 Matt Freese

Previously ranked: 3

Goalkeeper

He's had two starts, two wins and a shutout. He hasn't made a mistake. He hasn't put a foot wrong in the entire tournament. 

Alexi Lalas is a soccer analyst for FOX Sports and host of "Alexi Lalas' State of the Union Podcast." He represented the USMNT at the 1994 FIFA World Cup and had a nine-year professional career. In 2006, he became the president of the LA Galaxy and helped bring David Beckham to Major League Soccer.