Malik really created that goal starting with his high intensity defensive press see starting at 6:40. As we saw the combination of Tillman, Balo, Weah, and McKennie combining and playing off each other could be very special for the US.
One would not have had the same level of success without the other. Their chemistry together was the most encouraging development we have seen from the US team in some time.
Tillman continues to get buzz with SI calling him the key to the US WC success. https://www.si.com/soccer/why-malik-tillman-is-usmnts-key-to-success-at-2026-world-cup-digital-cover
I’ll buy that, because he’s emerging as the key variable to implementing Poch’s ideas well. He contributes intelligence the final third + technical ability + pressing ability up high that ties it all together. I’d say our #9’s form is THE key to success, but that’s an obvious cliche, right?
The most difficult, most effective and rare attacking play is intricate combination play in and around the box. Tillman is good at literally everything a midfielder can be good at, but this specific element is where he is great.
The interviewer, despite his giggling strangeness making Tillman nearly squirm out of his seat at times, had some good questions. Tillman came across as a serious guy. Some interesting notes: - Tillman underscored the importance of the Gold Cup, in particular the importance of having the time with Pochettino and other players who were there. - Tillman chose the US because he felt he had a better opportunity with the US and that the US had already helped develop him into a better player. - Tillman thinks that the US has a good long-term outlook to be competitive. The more time Pulisic misses, the more his Gold Cup absence is solidified as a mistake because of the missed opportunity to get on the same page with both Malik and Pochettino.
I didn’t realize that Tillman created 6 chances against Ecuador, a top defensive squad who had a target on his back. A guy who can do that and contribute defensively is really, really valuable.