The United States is gearing up to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and expectations are mounting. While some consider a deep run a possibility, former USA stars Landon Donovan, Brad Guzan, and Cobi Jones have set a clear benchmark: the quarterfinals.
The U.S. Men's National Team will co-host the tournament with Canada and Mexico, with matches set to be played in 16 cities across North America. This expanded format introduces a new dynamic to the competition, and the nation hopes for soccer success on home soil.
The USMNT's schedule includes a game on June 12 against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. They will then face Australia on June 19 at Lumen Field in Seattle, followed by a final group stage match on June 25, back at SoFi Stadium, against the winner of a European playoff. The potential opponents from Europe include Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, and Kosovo.
Drawn into Group D, the United States avoided some of the top-ranked teams in the world during the group stage draw. As a host nation, the U.S. was placed in Pot 1, preventing them from being grouped with other top seeds like Spain and Brazil. However, the draw has been deemed favorable, but veteran defender Tim Ream cautioned against complacency. He emphasized that performing well on paper doesn't guarantee success on the field and that the team must exceed expectations to secure victories.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino has expressed high ambitions for the team, stating a desire to win the tournament. Pochettino told Andrés Cantor in November, "For me, it's about winning. I think if you don't win, what does it matter? If you are second, nobody ever remembers. And I believe we should aspire to win it". He added that he has no obligations and doesn't care about past accolades, and that players will earn playing time through current performance.
Landon Donovan highlighted the shift in the team's culture, emphasizing the pride players are now showing while representing their country. Despite missing key players due to injuries and opt-outs during the Gold Cup, Donovan praised the team's performance and the opportunity it provided for emerging talents to prove themselves.
While acknowledging that the U.S. might not be the most talented team in the tournament, there is an acknowledgement that tournaments create strange physics. Factors such as a strong goalkeeper, well-executed counterattacks, or even a red card can significantly influence the outcome of matches. The confluence of home-field advantage, climate conditions, a potentially favorable bracket, and a deeper roster contribute to the sense that this World Cup presents the Americans with a unique opportunity.
Australia's coach, Tony Popovic, acknowledged the challenges his team faces in Group D but expressed confidence in his young players. He stated that the World Cup offers them a chance to showcase their abilities on the world stage and that the team is determined to give their all for their country.
With the World Cup draw complete, the USMNT can now focus on preparing for their group stage matches. Their performance in these games will be crucial in determining their path in the tournament and whether they can meet the quarterfinal expectations set by Donovan, Guzan, and Jones. The team's journey begins on June 12, and the nation will be watching to see if they can rise to the occasion.
