USMNT Dominates Trinidad in Gold Cup Opener

The U.S. men's national soccer team broke a four-game losing streak with a dominant 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in their CONCACAF Gold Cup opener, controlling 70% possession and outshooting their opponents 21-3. Malik Tillman scored twice, while Patrick Agyemang, Brenden Aaronson, and Haji Wright added goals. The team, missing several regular starters and fielding three players in their first competitive caps, was without star midfielder Christian Pulisic due to public disagreements with coach Mauricio Pochettino. The emphatic victory eased pressure on the squad but drew a modest crowd of 12,610 at San Jose's PayPal Park, reflecting some ongoing fan skepticism amid recent turmoil. The group stage continues for the USMNT against Saudi Arabia and Haiti. The tournament is viewed as a key opportunity for players aiming to secure spots ahead of the 2026 World Cup.