Rising Stars in U.S. Men's National Team Shine at Gold Cup

The U.S. Men's National Team entered the Gold Cup with a key question: who amongst the young roster would rise to the occasion and catch the attention of manager Mauricio Pochettino? With the World Cup just around the corner and a number of first-choice players absent, this question has gained significant importance. The tournament has seen several players catching the eye. Chris Richards, with his experience at clubs like Bayern Munich, Hoffenheim and Crystal Palace, was expected to perform well and he hasn't disappointed. Likewise, Luca de la Torre has excelled in the midfield, which isn't surprising given his inclusion in the 2022 World Cup roster. But the tournament has also seen less experienced players making waves. These include Sebastian Berhalter who has impressed with his set piece deliveries and work-rate in the midfield. His performances have been a crucial factor in the team's progression in the tournament. However, not all players have seized their opportunity. Cardoso, who usually impresses at La Liga club Real Betis, has yet to deliver similar performances for the national team. Despite the disappointment, there's still time for Cardoso to make his mark, especially during the knockout stages of the Gold Cup. Another player making headlines is the 23-year-old PSV star who has emerged as Pochettino's main attacking threat. His three goals in the group stage have increased his chances of securing a starting position for the World Cup. As the Gold Cup progresses, it's clear that several players have significantly raised their stock. De la Torre and Berhalter, in particular, have made the most of their chances and are now firmly in Pochettino's considerations for future games.