Explained: Why USMNT star Reyna didn’t play against Wales in World Cup opener

Reyna benched for Timothy WeahWeah scored first-half goalReyna never introduced as substitute

WHAT HAPPENED? Reyna, considered one of the USMNT’s brightest young talents, was denied a World Cup debut on Monday as Weah started ahead of him while Brenden Aaronson and Jordan Morris were prioritized off the bench.

WHY DIDN’T REYNA PLAY AGAINST WALES? Berhalter said Reyna didn’t start in part because of pre-match muscle tightness but added the choice not to use the Borussia Dortmund player in the second half was tactical. “In the phase of the game we were at we went with Jordan [Morris] who we felt could give us something with speed and power,” he explained.

Reyna told reporters after the game that he was fit enough to participate, however, suggesting his health had nothing to do with his omission. “I’m 100 percent and I’m good to go,” Reyna said.

STORY IN A PHOTO:

THE REACTION:

Berhalter’s decision to exclude Reyna did not go over well.

Could Reyna have provided a late-match spark?

Morris certainly didn’t make magic happen!

WHAT’S NEXT FOR REYNA: Berhalter said he expects the winger to be available for selection on Friday against England.

Related Post
Share
Published by
jxSx73amHi_gsw_tkr4qZXPAKZQh5eaKadEz.2Rq_wgSE5JFhTT4wZJh.d9g

Recent Posts

Mohammed Siraj reflects on 4-fer on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

India’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was delighted with his personal performance on the opening day… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra slams West Indies after dismal showing on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra criticized the West Indies’ performance after their mundane performance… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra gives stern warning to Sai Sudharsan after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has urged Sai Sudharsan to make the most of his… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra urges KL Rahul to capitalise on home season after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has urged KL Rahul to continue his rich form… Read More

October 3, 2025

Parthiv Patel urges ‘tentative’ Sai Sudharsan to stay calm against the West Indies

Former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel has urged Sai Sudharsan to remain calm in the Test… Read More

October 3, 2025

Darren Ganga lauds KL Rahul after Indian opener continues rich form against the West Indies

Former West Indies batter Darren Ganga showered praise on KL Rahul after the Indian opener… Read More

October 3, 2025