USMNT Stock Watch: Who stood out in USA soccer’s win vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The United States dominated the ball in Saturday night’s friendly vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina as they were up a man after Amar Begic’s red card for a high tackle on Kelly Acosta in the 39th minute. But the Americans needed a late goal from 20-year-old Cole Bassett to secure a 1-0 win.

The USMNT’s best early chance fell to Ricardo Pepi in the 13th minute, but he wasn’t able to redirect the shot on net. Jesus Fererria also had an amazing cross that Jordan Morris tried to head onto goal, but it was ultimately saved. Unfortunately, it was clear that this United States squad hasn’t played much together because the team struggled to string plays together. The backline held up well, however, so Gregg Berhalter was able to tinker with subs to change the pace.

And the subs did make an impact with Gyasi Zardes, Jonathan Gomez, and Bassett being involved in the eventual winner in the 88th minute. After Zardes brought the ball down, Gomez’s shot tested Nikola Cetkovic before Bassett followed up the spill by being in the right place to knock it in.

With a match like this, it’s always good to take a look at who could have improved their stock ahead of January camp and the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers.

Stock Up

Walker Zimmerman: Quickly becoming one of the first names on the team sheet, it was another composed performance from Zimmerman. Strong at the back and comfortable driving play forward, Zimmerman has fully passed John Brooks on the depth chart to partner with Miles Robinson.

Cole Bassett: He didn’t have to do much, but scoring goals off the bench will always play well especially since it can translate into the same role during World Cup Qualifiers. Firing off two shots in 12 minutes, he looked like he belongs but it’ll be interesting to see how Berhalter wants his midfield to work as Cristian Roldan also had a good match fighting for a similar substitute role.

George Bello/Jonathan Gomez: While neither is likely catching Antonee Robinson anytime soon, it’s good to know that there may be depth at left back. Bello cleaned up everything down his flank while creating chances that the forwards didn’t finish… (more on that later) while Gomez helped create the game-winner. Even though he wasn’t on the field for long, the unpredictability of his passing makes him a great sub.

Johnny Cardoso: An off-the-radar inclusion, the midfielder made his first appearance since a friendly in 2020 against Panama. Making his first start for the United States men’s national team, he turned in a tidy performance. As Tyler Adams doesn’t have a natural backup who is performing well, it is a big opportunity for him to make an impression.

Stock Down

The Attack: The dry spell for Ricardo Pepi continues while Jordan Pefok scored four goals in the Swiss League on Sunday. It is open season to figure out who will start at the No. 9 during these World Cup qualifiers and based on performances, we may end up seeing Christian Pulisic through the middle since Timothy Weah won’t be healthy enough by January. Jesus Ferreira had an OK game and we know that Jordan Morris just needs minutes, but none of the attackers playing on Saturday screamed for inclusion anytime soon.

Auston Trusty: After an excellent MLS season, not featuring in this match is a disappointment. Center back is a crowded position for the national team but Trusty was expected to get on the field. While he’s too young to be written off and it is always good to see him called in, it doesn’t feel like he got a complete chance.