Fifa World Cup 2026: What you need to know about USA
Excitement was high when Mauricio Pochettino took over as USA coach, but results under the former Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain boss have been mixed
- Published
Get the lowdown onevery team at the 2026 World Cup. Here we take a closer look at USA.
What can I expect from USA?
Thirty-two years on from their first time as World Cup hosts, all eyes will be back on the United States this summer. But this time, expectations are higher.
The United States Soccer Federation made a big statement of intent to appoint Mauricio Pochettino to lead the charge. His arrival brought initial excitement, although inconsistent performances have tempered any rampant enthusiasm about the team's prospects, not to mention his recent links with the Milan job.
Nevertheless, home support should count for a lot and only twice in World Cup history have the hosts failed to progress from the group stage – South Africa in 2010 and Qatar four years ago.
With the fans, a first-class coach and an exciting blend of talent in the squad, the foundations are seemingly in place for a strong run on home soil – if they can meet the moment.
What are USA's strengths?
They are dynamic and energetic group with a host of versatile players. Antonee Robinson and Sergino Dest are both incisive wing-backs, while Folarin Balogun could be the consistent striker the team has lacked for years after an excellent end to the season with Monaco.
And what about their weaknesses?
Keeping goals out will be tough. The inexperienced Matt Freese should get the nod in goal and in defence 38-year-old Tim Ream is set to start. Key defender Chris Richards is also a fitness doubt due to an ankle issue.
How might USA line up?
Which players should I look out for?
The US team has pace and energy aplenty in the wide positions. But can Antonee Robinson and Sergino Dest put injury issues behind them this summer and shine?
Since the United States was named as a host nation, the man known as 'Captain America' has been backed to be their hero. But will Christian Pulisic (left) overcome a lull in form in 2026 and inspire a deep run for the States? The pressure will be on him to do so.
Folarin Balogun finished the season as one of the hottest centre-forwards in Europe with 11 goals in 14 games. Pochettino will look to him to provide an edge in the final third that was lacking in Qatar.
Christian Pulisic scored his first goal for his country since November 2024 in a World Cup warm-up win over Senegal
Who is USA's head coach?
Mauricio Pochettino was considered a significant coup when the USMNT landed him in 2024. This is his first international job and the Argentine is looking to rebuild his reputation as an elite coach after mixed stints with PSG and Chelsea.
How did USA qualify?
Automatically as one of the three co-hosts of the tournament.
Where can I watch USA?
All of USA's matches will also be covered live on the BBC Sport website and app with updates, analysis, and fan reaction. Come and be part of it!
Give me a fact to impress my friends
The USA has only managed nine wins in 37 previous World Cup matches prior to 2026 and only one of those came in the knockout stages, back in 2002.
Now give me some proper detail
The United States have been given a bombastic American build-up. Now, after years of anticipation, what can we actually expect from them on home soil?
After a tame elimination in the last-16 in Qatar, it was clear changes needed to be made before they welcomed the world as hosts. The appointment of Pochettino captured the imagination and his reputation as one of the elite coaches in the game has supercharged expectations.
Preparations for the tournament have not been straightforward though, albeit a 3-2 friendly win over Senegal did lift spirits. A lingering doubt remains as to whether this crop can really cut it against the elite.
At the time of going to print, the USMNT's last win against a European team was Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2021. They've lost seven and drawn two since.
They made it to the Gold Cup final last summer but were well beaten by Mexico. A 5-1 friendly win over Uruguay caught the eye in November, but the USMNT struggled to lay a glove on Belgium and Portugal in March's friendlies, losing 5-2 and 2-0 respectively.
How have USA done at previous World Cups?
This their 12th World Cup and a ninth in the last 10. They reached the last 16 when they last hosted the tournament in 1994.
