UPDATE: Gio Reyna delivered a stunning performance in his return to the US Men’s National Team (USMNT), leading them to a 2-1 victory over Paraguay on October 14, 2023, just 602 days since his last goal for the national team. This exciting match took place in chilly conditions outside of Philadelphia and showcased Reyna’s potential as he aims for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
Reyna, who has struggled for minutes at his club Borussia Dortmund, quickly made his presence felt. He opened the scoring, marking his ninth international goal, which places him ahead of his father, Claudio Reyna, on the USMNT’s all-time scoring list. “I was just happy to score, happy to be back,” Reyna said after the match. His goal came from a well-placed cross that found the back of the net, and he was also instrumental in the game-winning goal in the 75th minute.
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino praised Reyna’s performance, stating, “He was great—scored and assisted.” Pochettino emphasized Reyna’s need to play more at the club level to maintain his spot in the national squad. The urgency is palpable, with only 208 days remaining until the World Cup, and Reyna is determined to prove his worth during this critical time.
The match also highlighted the depth of the USMNT, who played without several key players. Despite this, the team showed resilience and aggression, applying relentless pressure on Paraguay. Pochettino’s strategy is clearly paying off, as the USMNT remains unbeaten in their last four matches, showcasing improved cohesion and understanding on the field.
Reyna’s journey back from injury has not been easy; he credits the support at Borussia Dortmund for helping him regain his fitness. “I feel really, really good, feel valued, feel important,” he expressed, signaling his readiness to contribute to the team. However, he is aware that consistency is key. The match against Paraguay is just the beginning of what he hopes will be a series of strong performances leading up to the World Cup.
The USMNT’s next challenge will be against Mexico on October 17, where Reyna will aim to build on this momentum. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he strives to solidify his role within the team. The clock is ticking, and Reyna is ready to seize the moment.
This victory not only boosts Reyna’s confidence but also reinforces the USMNT’s aspirations as they prepare for the global stage. With each match, they continue to lay the groundwork for what they hope will be a successful World Cup campaign. The excitement is building—stay tuned for more updates as the USMNT pushes forward!
