Matt Freese has a chance to solidify the USMNT goalkeeper job

New York City FC fans know Matt Freese is one of the top goalkeepers in Major League Soccer. He makes clutch saves and arguably has been a difference maker for the team. Without him, there is no question that the Pigeons would have had a few more losses both last season and this one.

Statistically, his numbers might be down when it comes to saves, as he has 79 saves currently, compared to the 121 he recorded in 2024. It is unlikely he will hit that number with seven matches left. He does have one more clean sheet in 2025, with seven, and his save percentage is a little over 72% for the second year in a row. But again, his timely saves and some of the types of saves Freese makes are a major part of his game.

Matt Freese must perform well with the USMNT

Hence, it is clear why Freese finally had a chance to play with the USMNT. The fact that he was healthy, constantly playing, and playing well aided in the decision for him to be the starter during the Gold Cup.

Admittedly, there were some shaky moments for the NYCFC goalkeeper. But Freese reminded everyone of what he is capable of with his spectacular performance against Costa Rica in the quarterfinals. He made three saves in the penalty kick shootout and helped lead the USMNT all the way to the finals.

Now, he has the opportunity to use the current international window to solidify the USMNT goalkeeper role. He must be his very best and persuade Mauricio Pochettino that he should start the friendlies against South Korea and Japan. Moreover, he is not just competing with his fellow teammates during this window, but also the likes of Matt Turner and Zack Steffen.

At the very least, Freese should convince Pochettino that he should be one of the regular three call-ups. But again, he needs to impress the national team manager in the next few days. The Gold Cup has come and gone; the NYCFC star cannot lift his foot off the gas pedal.

Of course, the overall goal is to solidify the starting role. He might be able to do that if he has a performance or two where he makes multiple saves to earn the USMNT the win. Ideally, he will secure a clean sheet. Mistakes must be nonexistent as well.

Freese is talented where he can play for the national team. It is vital that he does well with the USMNT and performs at a high level.