The USMNT made an impressive start to their 2026 World Cup campaign, beating Paraguay 4-1 in a performance that showed real progress under Mauricio Pochettino.
Folarin Balogun grabbed the headlines with two goals, but there was plenty to admire beyond the forward line. At the back, Tim Ream delivered exactly the kind of performance Pochettino needed.
There were questions over the 38-year-old’s place in a back four, but he justified his selection with a composed display and one standout statistic.
Tim Ream leads World Cup centre-backs for line-breaking passes
According to Opta, Ream made more line-breaking passes than any other centre-back on the first round of the FIFA World Cup group stage, finishing with 23.
That number reflects more than passing range. It shows how important he was in helping the USMNT play through Paraguay’s shape and build attacks with control.
Opta also noted that Ream was the oldest defender to feature in the opening round at 38 years and 251 days.
His age made his role a natural concern before the tournament, but he answered with control and composure.
Ream played the full 90 minutes, completed 84 of his 90 passes, made three clearances, five recoveries and added one block.
For a team still adjusting under Pochettino, his calm distribution from defence could prove just as valuable as anything happening further forward.
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