Full Breakdown
Pochettino Prepares USMNT for World Cup Opener Against Paraguay
6/12/2026, 1:04:11 PM
Opening Match Overview
The United States men’s national team (USMNT) opens Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Paraguay on 12 June 2026 at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles. Coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed that all 26 rostered players are medically cleared, including central defender Chris Richards, who resumed full training after a sprained ankle. Pochettino has chosen a starting eleven but has not disclosed the lineup.
Background
The United States co-hosts the tournament with Canada and Mexico, its first hosting since 1994. Pochettino took over in September 2024, inheriting a squad that missed the Copa America knockout stage and suffered two Nations-League defeats. Since then the team has won six of its last ten matches, highlighted by a 3-2 win over Senegal and a narrow 2-1 loss to Germany in pre-World Cup friendlies.
Official Statements & Responses
Pochettino stressed that external motivation is unnecessary when players are mentally prepared, defining success solely as winning “tomorrow and after tomorrow.” He praised the medical and performance staff for enabling full-squad availability and warned that Paraguay’s “aggressive, competitive” style will be a “very, very difficult” test. He urged his players to play with “freedom and passion” to engage the home crowd.
Criticism & Concerns
Analysts note lingering doubts about Richards’ match fitness and the undisclosed goalkeeper selection. Earlier in his tenure the USMNT faced criticism for “autopilot” performances in the Nations League, raising questions about the depth of the cultural shift Pochettino promotes.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on whether the starting eleven has been communicated to the squad; Pochettino confirmed a decision but withheld details. While Richards is listed as available, some commentary suggests caution before fielding him at full intensity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Success is to win. To win tomorrow. And win after tomorrow. And win again,” — Mauricio Pochettino
- “But if you aren't ready, sorry guys, it's impossible to perform.” — Mauricio Pochettino
- “Don’t worry about the pressure and the consequences. They need to think and play tomorrow like they’re a child. With no pressure or responsibility. Just do what you’ve always done.” — Mauricio Pochettino
- “He is available to be selected, and then we will decide if he starts from the beginning of the game or is on the bench.” — Mauricio Pochettino
- “Paraguay showed in qualification for this World Cup how tough it is to play against them and how they performed so well.” — Mauricio Pochettino
What’s Next
The USMNT will take the field against Paraguay on 12 June 2026. A win advances the team to the group-stage second round; a loss would increase pressure ahead of the remaining group matches versus Mexico and Italy.
