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U.S. Eliminated 4-1 by Belgium, Coach Pochettino Talks Continue

7/17/2026

43 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

USA Eliminated

United States lost 4-1 to Belgium in the Round of 16, ending its 2026 World Cup campaign.
Matt Freese’s hesitation allowed Charles De Ketelaere to score Belgium’s third goal at the 57th minute.
Folarin Balogun’s red card in the Bosnia-Herzegovina win triggered a VAR review and a reduced suspension for the Belgium match.
U.S. Soccer CEO J.T. Batson confirmed active talks with Mauricio Pochettino about retaining him as coach.

Summary

Altidore Co-hosts

Jozy Altidore co-hosts the “Man On” podcast with former NBA star Joakim Noah.
Altidore said 2026 World Cup hydration breaks will cut stamina and slow tempo.
He entered the Messi-vs-Ronaldo GOAT debate, calling it a key fan discussion.
Altidore highlighted MLS homegrown talent as the next USMNT generation.
A fan commentator warned the early-30s USMNT squad must add younger players to stay competitive for the 2030 Spain-Morocco World Cup.

History

Historical Context

In 1994, after FIFA awarded the World Cup to the United States on July 4 1988, the tournament drew 3,587,538 spectators and spurred national interest, leading FIFA to require the creation of MLS (founded 1993, launched 1996). Coach Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT, featuring Jozy Altidore, builds on that legacy while targeting the 2030 Spain-Morocco World Cup.

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USA Eliminated

United States lost 4-1 to Belgium in the Round of 16, ending its 2026 World Cup campaign.
Matt Freese’s hesitation allowed Charles De Ketelaere to score Belgium’s third goal at the 57th minute.
Folarin Balogun’s red card in the Bosnia-Herzegovina win triggered a VAR review and a reduced suspension for the Belgium match.
U.S. Soccer CEO J.T. Batson confirmed active talks with Mauricio Pochettino about retaining him as coach.

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