Tim Howard Reveals His Top Three USMNT Stars Who Dominated Gold Cup Group Stage
Former U.S. men's national team goalkeeper and legendary figure Tim Howard has identified three standout performers from the Gold Cup group stage who have impressed him most while representing the Stars and Stripes this summer.
The USMNT recovered from disappointing defeats against Türkiye and Switzerland in exhibition matches by successfully defeating all three opponents in their Gold Cup group stage encounters. Wins over Trinidad and Tobago, Saudi Arabia, and Haiti have helped restore confidence as this youthful squad pursues tournament glory this summer.
With key players like Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah, Weston McKennie, Antonee Robinson and others absent, several players have the chance to make their mark not just with their manager but with supporters nationwide.
Sports Illustrated spoke with Howard before the USMNT's quarterfinal clash with Costa Rica, discussing which players have excelled under Mauricio Pochettino's guidance.
"Malik performed exceptionally well. Diego Luna is destined to become a fan favorite. He's incredibly entertaining and skilled to observe, but my standout trio consists of Tillman, [Patrick] Agyemang and Chris Richards," Howard shared with SI. "Tillman earns the top spot because when you're finding the net and creating danger, you must be recognized. Agyemang, in my view, represents our most suitable No. 9 option. He's demonstrating this quality, and while he occasionally frustrates with inconsistent moments, he also proves he's a challenging opponent. Defenders find him difficult to handle. He generates opportunities for himself and teammates. He's just beginning to tap into his potential and is starting to discover it.
"Regarding Richards, he's not an unfamiliar face. He's been competing at [Crystal] Palace, where his expectation is weekly team selection. He stated before the tournament his desire to be the leader. I appreciate when players embrace that responsibility."
Tillman netted four times during the group stage while Richards delivered the crucial strike against Saudi Arabia. Agyemang also found the scoresheet in matches against Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti.
Howard additionally commended the team's overall performance considering tournament expectations and the caliber of opposition in their opening three fixtures.
"I believe they successfully navigated some challenging encounters. It's extremely demanding when conditions are hot and humid, and a team positions all eleven players defensively. They don't prioritize ball possession and [opponents] adopt the attitude of 'You keep it, try to penetrate our defense.' From our perspective as viewers with remote controls, we think, 'Come on, find the goal!' But accomplishing that is genuinely challenging, and I think they handled these scenarios excellently. They have an opportunity where matches will become more open, they'll face greater tests, there will be additional space available, and I'm optimistic about the team," Howard explained to Sports Illustrated.
The USMNT continues their Gold Cup campaign against Costa Rica on Sunday, June 29. Victory would advance them to face the winner between Canada and Guatemala.