This article forms part of a collaborative effort among leading media organizations from the 48 countries that qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Starting June 11, the tournament will be previewed daily by various outlets.
The Strategy
As host nations receive a direct entry into the World Cup, a qualifying campaign could have provided clarity on the USA’s optimal strategy. Under Mauricio Pochettino’s management, the team has experienced significant tactical shifts, yet the primary objective remains to maintain control of the match. Against lower-ranked opponents like Paraguay, Australia, and Ecuador last autumn, the USA dominated with around 60% possession, while matches against stronger teams such as Uruguay, Japan, and Belgium resulted in a more balanced possession rate.
Pochettino, known for his intense pressing style, has shifted focus to establishing a mid-block defense to limit opponents’ touches in the final third. In attack, the USA aims to create passing sequences through the center, recently employing two attacking midfielders supported by a double pivot. The width of the play largely depends on the full-backs or wing-backs, with midfielders occasionally drifting to create numerical advantages.
Despite a limited pool of center-backs, Pochettino found success with a three-defender setup and wing-backs last fall, but reverted to a 4-2-3-1 formation during a disappointing 5-2 loss against Belgium in March. Both formations function similarly, with a 3-2-5 shape in possession and transitioning to a 4-4-2 or 5-3-2 when defending. The key question remains whether Pochettino will optimize his strategy with five defenders, as seen in the 5-1 victory over Uruguay, or field his best players despite tactical drawbacks, evidenced by the loss to Belgium.
Pochettino reflected on the talent gap, stating, “Belgium and Portugal have, in the top 100 players, [a] few or some players in that top 100. I think we don’t have [any],” This comment followed a 2-0 defeat to Portugal, marking the last match before the squad was finalized. Nevertheless, Pochettino’s 26 selections have received more favorable communication than those excluded from the roster. There are reliable players who enhance team dynamics, aiming for a more cohesive atmosphere compared to four years ago. Once the match begins, this squad is eager to demonstrate their ability to control games rather than relying solely on counterattacks.
The Coach
Mauricio Pochettino stands out among renowned managers at this tournament, transitioning to international soccer after a challenging tenure at Chelsea. His playing career included representing Argentina at the 2002 World Cup, where he showcased both physicality and tactical acumen as a center-back. He is fondly remembered in certain areas of north London for leading Tottenham through its most successful period. Pochettino took the helm in 2024 after the USMNT’s disappointing group-stage exit at a home Copa América under Gregg Berhalter, with expectations for him to return to club management post-tournament.
Star Player
Despite being overlooked by Pochettino and the voting panel for the top 100 players globally, Christian Pulisic has proven to be a decisive factor for both the USA and Milan. At 27, he has been the face of U.S. soccer since the nation’s failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, carrying the significant burden of leading the USMNT into a new era focused on competition rather than mere participation. This year has been challenging for the forward from Hershey, who has not scored since December, yet his capacity to navigate past defenders and create scoring opportunities ensures he remains a focal point for opposing teams.
Player to Watch
With Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey’s departures, the USA adapted to a striker-by-committee approach during the 2022 cycle. The commitment of Folarin Balogun to represent the USA over England and Nigeria marked a significant win for the program. The Arsenal-developed striker is valued at over $40 million and possesses excellent finishing skills, able to find space for tap-ins or shoot from distance when provided with the right service. Although his form with Monaco has varied, he demonstrated strong performances in the spring, making him the latest threat in the USA’s No. 20 jersey, following in the footsteps of Brian McBride.
Unsung Hero
Chris Richards, potentially only second to Tyler Adams in irreplaceability, is a standout figure in the USA’s lineup. As a 2025 FA Cup winner with Crystal Palace, Richards is a vital presence on the backline, combining modern defending capabilities with solid aerial and ground defensive statistics, along with the passing range necessary for possession play. His contributions largely went unnoticed during Marc Guéhi’s tenure until the latter’s departure; similarly, his pairing with Tim Ream has proven to be a strong yet understated asset throughout this cycle. A series of dependable performances this summer could inspire a new appreciation for the importance of solid defending.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Expectations
After a disappointing performance in the March window, enthusiasm among fans is tempered, especially considering the exorbitant costs associated with this World Cup. The pricing model is so steep that it raises concerns about maintaining the same level of support seen in previous tournaments with more affordable options. The high entry fees could dampen the atmosphere, increasing pressure to justify expenses. Expect the familiar sights and sounds: red, white, and blue colors, chants of “U-S-A! U-S-A!”, along with fans dressed as Revolutionary War patriots and bald eagles.
What’s at Stake?
The 1994 World Cup ignited American interest in soccer, and 2026 is viewed as an opportunity to propel the sport to new heights. Domestic leagues are aligning their mid- to long-term strategies with the hope of attracting new fans this summer. If attendance fails to meet expectations, concerns may arise regarding investment continuity. On the field, past round-of-16 exits in 2010, 2014, and 2022 have left the team without a quarter-final appearance since 2002. Once regarded as a potential golden generation, a deep tournament run would redeem a mixed cycle and validate Pochettino’s substantial salary. Failing that, fans may eagerly look towards the next generation in hopes of establishing the USA as a top-10 team globally.
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