USMNT Stars Shine Bright: Which Five Players Dominated This Week's World Cup Race?
With slightly more than 200 days remaining before the U.S. men's national team takes the field for their inaugural match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at SoFi Stadium.
Given the urgent concerns regarding form and fitness, plus the ambition to secure a spot in head coach Mauricio Pochettino's 26-man squad, every club-level fixture becomes crucial for each player pursuing their dream of national team representation.
Several prominent players saw action, yet it was actually those operating on the fringes who made their mark as October transitioned into November.
Here are Sports Illustrated's standout five USMNT displays from this week.
5. Joe Scally (Borussia Monchengladbach)
Pochettino has generally bypassed Joe Scally, yet the defender with 21 USMNT appearances contributed to Borussia Mönchengladbach's clean sheet in their commanding 4–0 victory over FC St. Pauli in Bundesliga competition.
Scally completed the full 90 minutes operating as a right wingback and ventured forward to strike the woodwork, while also contributing seven defensive actions.
Given the transition to a three-center-back system for the USMNT, sustained excellent form as a right wingback might restore his chances for a 2026 World Cup squad selection.
4. Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven)
Ricardo Pepi maintained his impressive Eredivisie form by finding the net in a thrilling 5–2 victory against Fortuna Sittard, marking his fourth strike this campaign and propelling PSV Eindhoven to second place in the standings.
Though the ex-FC Dallas talent didn't begin the contest, he made an immediate impact after being introduced in the 60th minute. Beyond his goal, he maintained perfect passing accuracy with 10 successful attempts and registered 15 touches as an effective substitute.
The concern for Pepi remains his limited starting opportunities. PSV have relied on Guus Til and Ismael Saibari to spearhead their attack, with both players also scoring in this victory. Nevertheless, post-match manager Peter Bosz confirmed that Pepi remains his preferred striker, but has been rested due to the team's winning streak.
3. Auston Trusty (Celtic)
The 2025–26 season hasn't been exceptional for either Celtic or Rangers, with both clubs swiftly changing their managers. Despite their individual challenges, the Old Firm derby remains among football's most passionate rivalries, and an American center-back was central to Sunday's action.
Auston Trusty, who has been largely excluded from the USMNT under Pochettino, contributed to Celtic's 3–1 triumph over Rangers in the Scottish League Cup semifinal, providing an assist during the 120-minute battle after regulation time ended 1–1.
The 27-year-old had just returned to action midweek following recovery from a foot problem, and excelled in the semifinal, claiming the club's Player of the Match recognition.
2. Tyler Adams (Bournemouth)
Tyler Adams rarely finds the back of the net. However, he scored his first goal since 2021, and his maiden Premier League strike, during AFC Bournemouth's 3–1 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday.
The goal arrived in his 65th Premier League outing, representing just his seventh professional career goal, with three of those seven coming during his time with New York Red Bulls II in the USL Championship.
Although the Cherries couldn't secure a positive outcome at the Etihad Stadium, Adams experienced a memorable career milestone. Unfortunately, he was substituted in the 80th minute with what appeared to be a minor knee issue after receiving on-field medical attention.
1. Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew)
While European-based players will continue competing through summer, the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs are essential for American players competing domestically. Any eliminated players won't feature in club matches until February's season restart, losing valuable preparation time before the World Cup.
Max Arfsten and Columbus Crew confronted this scenario on Sunday evening, teetering on elimination after dropping Game 1 of their first-round best-of-three series against Hell is Real adversaries FC Cincinnati.
However, Arfsten and his teammates responded brilliantly, with the American scoring both the opener and match-winner in a dominant 4–0 triumph, forcing a decisive Game 3 in one of the league's fiercest rivalries. Alongside his goal, he also registered an assist, completed eight successful dribbles, and created four scoring opportunities, earning Player of the Match accolades.
The series-deciding Game 3 is scheduled for Nov. 8 at FC Cincinnati's TQL Stadium.