Three things we learned from the USMNT’s encouraging October window

The U.S. men’s national team wrapped up its October friendlies with a draw against Ecuador and a comeback win over Australia.

The two matches offered both encouragement and caution as Mauricio Pochettino continues to shape his squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The performances revealed a clearer picture of where the team stands and what still needs refining as we head towards the depths of winter in 2025.

Here are three key takeaways from the October international window that was.

Depth is starting to show

For years, the USMNT has struggled with depth beyond its core group of stars. This October window suggested that may finally be changing.

Against Ecuador, it was Folarin Balogun who salvaged a 1–1 draw with a composed equalizer after the team had fallen behind. Days later against Australia, Haji Wright lead the line and scored twice to secure a 2–1 comeback victory.

Those contributions weren’t isolated moments, they were the product of a squad beginning to trust more players in big roles.

Even Cristian Roldán, often used as a depth option, made a decisive impact with assists on both Wright goals, while Diego Luna impressed after stepping in for the injured Christian Pulisic.

The fact that several perceived depth pieces were able to swing matches in the U.S.’s favor shows a growing maturity in the squad, something that will be vital in a demanding World Cup run.

Defensive lapses remain a major concern

While the attacking depth was encouraging, the U.S. defense once again showed moments of carelessness that nearly cost results.

Against Ecuador, the Americans were undone by a quick counterattack after losing shape in transition. Against Australia, the opening goal came from a simple throw-in that the back line failed to handle, allowing Aussie Jordan Bos to pounce on loose marking.

Mauricio Pochettino didn’t mince words afterward, admitting that the U.S. "can not concede the goal we conceded at a World Cup.”

The comment summed up the problem perfectly, these lapses in concentration may not matter much in October friendlies, but they could prove fatal in tournament play. For all the energy and progress up front, tightening the back line remains the team’s biggest unfinished project.

The mentality under Pochettino is changing

If there’s one intangible but vital sign of progress, it’s that the U.S. is developing a stronger mentality. Both games saw the Americans fall behind, only to respond with patience and fight, two traits that haven’t always been present in recent years.

Pochettino has stressed that he’s trying to build not just a tactical identity, but a “culture” rooted in competitiveness and accountability. That message seems to be sinking in. Players are battling for spots, celebrating each other’s success, and responding well to adversity.

The chemistry looks genuine in recent weeks, and the belief is growing that this group can compete against higher-level opposition.

Final verdict

October’s window wasn’t flawless, the defense wobbled, Pulisic’s injury scare raised eyebrows, and consistency remains a work in progress. But the broader picture is promising. The U.S. showed it can get results through different players, respond to setbacks, and sustain belief even when not at its best.

With Pochettino’s system still taking shape and a deeper bench emerging, the U.S. leaves October with more reasons for optimism than frustration. If the lessons from these matches stick, this international break might be remembered as a turning point on the road to 2026.