Gio Reyna’s Return Sparks Hope: Still Eyeing a Spot for the 2026 World Cup

In a much-anticipated return to the U.S. men’s national team, Gio Reyna made a powerful statement. Back in the starting XI for the first time since July 2024, he scored early and helped set up the go-ahead goal in a 2–1 friendly win over Paraguay.

Just four minutes in, Reyna nodded in a cross from Max Arfsten, scoring his ninth international goal and passing his father, Claudio Reyna’s, total for the U.S Later, he played a key part in the 71st-minute winner: his pass was deflected into Folarin Balogun’s path, and Balogun finished

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino was full of praise. He called Reyna “a nightmare for Paraguay” and highlighted his vision and ability to exploit space: “how he reads the game … finds the free space in between the lines” made a real difference

Still, Pochettino also struck a cautionary note: Reyna needs more regular minutes at his club in Germany to solidify his case for the 2026 World Cup roster.

For his part, Reyna seemed both energized and realistic after the match: “If I keep performing like I did tonight … I believe I have a good chance to make the [World Cup] team.” Yahoo Sports

His performance not only gives him a boost but also offers the U.S. another creative attacking option as it builds toward next year’s tournament