- Tyler Adams’ return anchored the midfield—his defensive shielding and calm on the ball helped suffocate Paraguay and was a major reason the team looked far sharper than in March.
- Mauricio Pochettino’s tactical tweaks (3-man build in possession, wingbacks, Alex Freeman and Sergiño Dest in hybrid roles, Tillman deeper with McKennie advanced) suddenly gave the team better balance and smoother ball progression.
- The attack is finally clicking: Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi are in form and connecting with Christian Pulisic and Tillman, forming the most dangerous striker group the U.S. has brought to a World Cup.
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