The USMNT showed two sides this month — flat in a 0–2 loss to South Korea, then bouncing back with goals from Zendejas and Balogun in a 2–0 win over Japan. With Pulisic carrying unfair criticism and Pochettino still searching for consistency, the question is who’s ready to step up for 2026. Meanwhile, the LA Galaxy battle through September with draws against Houston and Seattle and now face a critical stretch: Cincinnati, Sporting KC, and the Campeones Cup Final vs Toluca. With playoffs unlikely, these matches are about pride, momentum, and silverware.