Sebastian Berhalter is making a late, loud case for a spot on the USMNT's World Cup roster—and he's doing it from long range.
In Wednesday's thrilling 3-2 win for the Vancouver Whitecaps over FC Dallas, Berhalter unleashed two stunning strikes from outside the box, proving he's got the kind of firepower that could solve a lingering midfield puzzle for manager Mauricio Pochettino. With the World Cup just weeks away and the final 26-man roster announcement set for May 26, Berhalter's timing couldn't be more perfect.
His hot streak is nothing short of historic. Berhalter has now recorded a goal contribution in nine of Vancouver's first 12 games this season—a club record. That kind of consistency is exactly what international coaches look for when building a tournament-ready squad.
And the timing got even better. With Johnny Cardoso sidelined by an ankle injury, the USMNT midfield picture has suddenly opened up. Berhalter's ability to create quality chances from distance fills a specific tactical need. Whitecaps coach Jesper Sørensen praised his composure, noting that Berhalter's strikes came from situations that "were not big chances," but that his "great quality" provides solutions "in moments where you don't expect it."
Beyond the long-range shooting, Berhalter brings added value with his set-piece delivery and strong attitude—both assets in what's becoming a crowded midfield race. He's already logged 11 USMNT appearances over the past 11 months, including his first international goal in November's win over Uruguay—a stunning strike that curled inside the far post and announced his arrival on the big stage.
"I think it's pretty already set," Berhalter said of his standing with the coaching staff. "They know what they can expect."
That confidence comes from growth. Berhalter admits his shot selection has matured over time. "Coaches wanted me to chill out and understand the shots I'm taking," he explained. "Now I'm at a point where I'm confident, they're confident in me, and it's just about hitting the target."
While Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Malik Tillman appear locked into the midfield core, the remaining spots are up for grabs. Berhalter is competing with the likes of Diego Luna, Gio Reyna, Cristian Roldan, Tanner Tessmann, and Aidan Morris. But with performances like Wednesday's, he's proving he belongs in the conversation—and that sometimes, the best solutions come from distance.