The recent 5-1 defeat suffered by the U.S. men’s national team against Colombia has reignited scrutiny on head coach Gregg Berhalter. This loss, which took place in Landover, Maryland, has drawn parallels with past significant setbacks for USMNT, raising urgent questions about the team's trajectory.

A Shocking Defeat Sets the Stage for Criticism

The resounding loss to Colombia not only bears a stark resemblance to the 2016 defeat under Jurgen Klinsmann that led to his dismissal but also echoes the 2011 setback against Spain under Bob Bradley. These historical precedents highlight a crucial pattern where heavy defeats often serve as turning points for coaching evaluations within U.S. Soccer.

Examining Berhalter's Position Amid Mounting Pressure

In the aftermath of Saturday’s match, much like his predecessors, Berhalter’s position appears increasingly precarious. However, unlike past scenarios, this was just a friendly. Regardless, the significant scale of the defeat and the ensuing analysis of Berhalter’s tactics and results outside CONCACAF competitions provide ample reason for concern.

The Crucial Test Ahead: 2024 Copa América

The 2024 Copa América poses the next critical challenge for Berhalter's side. It will serve as a pivotal indicator of whether the team is on the right path towards the 2026 World Cup. If the squad performs well, this Colombian debacle may soon be forgotten. But if failure ensues, this loss could be seen as part of a revealing pattern of underachievement.

"The truth is, I see a [U.S.] team with commitment, I see a team that runs, but I see a team that can't find solutions," former USMNT assistant and current pundit Tab Ramos remarked. "It's always the same, always the same football, always the same game."

Future Stakes and the Road to 2026

With playing time against elite teams limited between now and the 2026 World Cup, the coming tournament will be essential for USMNT’s evaluation. Sporting director Matt Crocker and his team must assess if Berhalter’s process is genuinely propelling the team towards a potential quarterfinal or semifinal finish, or if stagnation is setting in.

A timely decision must be made to ensure the team utilizes their talented player pool effectively. While a coaching change in the immediate future may seem rash, the longer-term perspective suggests that the window for such decisions is narrowing rapidly.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova