Reyna rules Concacaf again as USMNT star named player of Nations League

There’s something about this competition that brings out the best in Reyna

Gio Reyna clearly loves the Concacaf Nations League.

The U.S. national team midfielder was named the best player of the Nations League after scoring in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Mexico in the final.

That performance followed a star showing in the semifinal against Jamaica, as the 21-year-old came off the bench to assist two Haji Wright goals in extra time of a 3-1 win.

With the USMNT up a goal thanks to a rocket from Tyler Adams before the break on Sunday, Reyna all but put the game out of reach against Mexico at AT&T Stadium.

Following some excellent work on the left flank from Christian Pulisic, Mexico could only clear as far as Reyna, who smashed a half volley to the near post that Guillermo Ochoa couldn’t reach.

Even as his loan at Nottingham Forest continues to be a massive struggle, Reyna once again found his best level with the USMNT.

“It never gets old winning titles with your country so I won’t take anything for granted,” Reyna told CBS Sports after the game. “I’m so happy for the guys and how they played today and how we fought through adversity. It was just a great game and I’m so happy for everyone.

“The group of guys and the energy we have here, it’s amazing. I always love coming to camp. I really mean it from the bottom of my heart. It’s a great group of guys and they’re so great to work with and be around. I can’t really say much more, I’m at a loss for words right now. It’s an honor to play with these guys and for my country.”

There’s something about this competition that brings out the best in Reyna, who had one of the best performances of his USMNT career in last year’s Nations League final against Canada.

Even as his club future continues to be murky, Reyna’s national team displays mean his role as a prominent member of this USMNT is unquestionable.

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