Alex Freeman Shines For USMNT In Rout Over Uruguay

TAMPA, Fla. – Alex Freeman made his international debut for the U.S. Men’s National Team just six months ago on June 7 in the team’s match against Türkeye.

And just 13 caps later, the defensive standout is scoring his first international brace.

Freeman shined on the big stage in the U.S. Men’s National Team’s emphatic 5-1 win over 15th-ranked Uruguay on Tuesday, Nov. 18 in Tampa, Florida. Making his 10th overall start, Freeman finished the night with two goals 11 minutes apart.

His first goal arrived in the 20th minute when Freeman connected on excellent service from midfielder Sebastian Berhalter for a header goal following a corner kick. Freeman’s second goal of the night was equally impressive. The 6-foot-2 defender played the part of striker, deftly dribbling around defenders in a congested box and finishing with a sure-footed strike in the 31st minute.

“It’s something that I’ve been working for,” Freeman said of scoring his first international goals. “I think it was coming, maybe Gold Cup or in previous camps, but to finally get it and finish with a brace as well is something I’m really proud of. Hopefully, I can build off that going into next year.” 

If 2025 is a building block for what’s to come, the 21-year-old is bound to reach great heights in his blossoming career. Freeman has had an incredible run this year, starting with the U.S. Men’s National Team. The fullback earned his first-ever call-up and made his debut against Türkeye, becoming the youngest player to earn his first cap under head coach Mauricio Pochettino at 20 years, 303 days. He then went on to start every match in the United States’ run to the Cocacaf Gold Cup Final, developing into a consistent presence for Pochettino and teammates.

“When he has the ball, the team is like ‘phew.’ It’s a relief,” Pochettino said.

Freeman achieved breakout success this year for his club, Orlando City SC in Major League Soccer. He was recently named the MLS 2025 Young Player of the Year, taking up the mantle from U.S. teammate Diego Luna, who received the honor in 2024. Freeman finished his 2025 MLS campaign with a career-high nine goal contributions plus was named an MLS All-Star and to the MLS Best XI.

“He’s an incredible player,” Berhalter said. “The year he’s had this year is insane. He deserves all that. He’s such a great guy, and I’m so happy for him.”

Against Uruguay, Freeman put on a show in front of the fans in Florida. His brace earned the fullback his first Man of the Match honors with the USMNT and contributed to the program’s 10th win of the year.

This year, Freeman has been making a name for himself and seen tremendous growth. Among his many feats, he’s proud to add his first international goals with the Stars and Stripes.

“It’s unbelievable, it’s hard to describe it,” he said. “It’s something that you dream of. To do it back in Florida as well, it’s something I’m very proud of doing, especially for my family, so it’s an important moment for me.”