Pulisic, Reyna, Pepi: USMNT players to watch vs Japan

There's a lot at stake heading into the U.S. men's national team's friendly match against Japan on Thursday.

The World Cup is just around the corner and so too is the naming of a final squad. Just 26 players will represent the U.S. in Qatar, and Berhalter will have selection headaches that could be influenced by the performances in this camp.

The match against Japan isn't all about the fringes of the roster, but also about those at the top. With several USMNT stars out of form or fitness, others can freshen things up and build confidence heading into the most important months of the World Cup cycle.

Here's a look at five players to watch when the U.S. takes on Japan on Friday: