Celtic defender Auston Trusty’s display for the United States against Portugal has pushed him right into the World Cup frame, even with the result going the other way.

The USA were beaten 2-0, but that doesn’t tell the full story of how the game played out. Trusty played 90 minutes at centre-back, and came away with his stock rising among supporters.

Celtic FC Auston Trusty Ibrox
8th March 2026; Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland; Scottish Cup Football, Rangers versus Celtic; Auston Trusty of Celtic celebrate after celtic win on penalties

Portugal caused problems throughout, especially with runners drifting into space and balls coming in from wide areas. That left the USA defence dealing with long spells under pressure. Trusty coped well with that side of it.

He was front-footed in his defending and ready to step in when needed. When the ball came into the box, he attacked it. That hasn’t always been the case in recent US games.

There were still moments where Portugal got through, and both goals came from situations where the defence couldn’t quite recover. But compared to others in the back line, Trusty stood out.

The reaction from US supporters has been clear. Despite the defeat, Trusty has picked up praise for how he handled himself defensively.

That has come with more focus on Tim Ream, who is now facing questions over his place. The difference in style is obvious. Ream is more composed on the ball, but Trusty is more direct when it comes to defending his own box.

There was a slight concern late on when he went down with what looked like cramp, and had to be taken off.

Celtic will be hoping it is nothing more than that ahead of Sunday’s trip to Dens Park, with the squad already stretched and little room for another setback. It’s something the Celtic staff will keep a close eye on over the next few days.

Against a side like Portugal, that matters. When you’re under pressure, it comes down to winning duels and dealing with deliveries. Trusty looked more at ease doing that.

That performance has changed how he’s being viewed. Trusty is no longer just around the squad. He’s pushing for a starting place.

Game time has been limited over the past year for the USMNT, with a number of matches spent on the bench. But playing a full match against that level of opposition counts for something this close to a tournament.


The USA still have decisions to make in central defence. Form and partnerships will decide it. Trusty has given them something to think about.

If he builds on this, he won’t just be going to the World Cup. He’ll be going there to play.