Experts weigh in on the USMNT’s readiness for the World Cup 2026, citing inconsistent performances and key weaknesses. While some players impressed, others struggled. Predictions vary, but most anticipate a group stage exit or Round of 16 elimination.
As the World Cup 2026 looms, hosted in part by the United States, concerns are mounting about the USMNT's readiness. Recent performances have been inconsistent, raising questions about the team's ability to compete at the highest level. Following a 2-0 defeat against South Korea and a subsequent 2-0 victory over Japan, experts are dissecting the team's strengths and weaknesses, trying to gauge how worried fans should be.
Leander Schaerlaeckens notes that alarm bells should be ringing anytime a World Cup host country with a promising generation loses consecutive games. While the win against Japan offered some relief, it's crucial to remember that Japan rested several key players. He stated, 'Yes, any time a World Cup host country and a generation of prodigies lose a handful of consecutive games with their A-team, or what passes for one, alarm bells should be ringing.' He tempered his concern by adding, 'Still, it was one game. Japan rested a lot of regulars. (Then again, the US were hardly at full strength.)'
Jon Arnold typically advocates for reason and patience but admits that frustration after the loss to Korea felt justified. He points out that this USMNT version has had numerous chances to prove they can win multiple knockout games at a World Cup, yet they have rarely seized those opportunities. 'Typically I preach reason and patience, but the frustration after the loss to Korea felt legitimate,' Arnold stated. 'They have taken advantage of almost none of those opportunities. Will it matter if they still win those knockout games? No. It will be party time. But concern is warranted in the interim.'
Alexander Abnos emphasizes the importance of performances, stating that it’s reasonable for people to want more to be excited about. The team has talented players and a high-profile coach, yet their performances against quality opposition have been largely underwhelming over the past year. “I mean, it’s the host country with talented players and one of the most high-profile coaches in the world at the helm and they have looked mostly bad against quality opposition in the last year,” said Abnos. “I understand that results don’t really matter until June, but performances still matter. But I don’t think people are unreasonable for wanting more to be excited about.”
Jakub Frankowicz highlights the significant changes from match to match, preventing the team from solidifying a roster and building chemistry. He ascribes some of this to Mauricio Pochettino’s limited window but emphasizes that the disjointed backline play should alarm fans if not ironed out. “But the USMNT have been making pretty large changes from match to match,” observes Frankowicz. “Perhaps some of this can be ascribed to Pochettino’s limited window with the US men’s national team, but the overall chemistry and disjointed backline play should alarm fans if it can’t get ironed out.”
Standout Performers and Declining Fortunes
Regarding individual performances, Folarin Balogun made a strong case for himself. His impact against Korea was immediate, and he provides a unique ability to create chances. Alejandro Zendejas also impressed, seizing his opportunity and demonstrating his value, while Matt Freese has seemingly stepped right into the competition for the USMNT's No 1 shirt.
However, some players saw their stock fall. Josh Sargent's struggles in the national team continued, and Sebastian Berhalter failed to impress against tougher opposition. Tim Ream, despite his experience, looked out of place at times, raising concerns about his role in the upcoming tournament.
Key Weaknesses and Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the USMNT's biggest weaknesses include a collapsing press, an inability to create chances consistently, and a lack of chemistry due to constant lineup changes. Addressing these issues will be critical for success in 2026.
Predictions for the USMNT's finish in the World Cup 2026 vary, but most experts believe they will advance past the group stage. Schaerlaeckens anticipates a first knockout stage win since 2002. Arnold predicts a round of 16 elimination, while Abnos sees them exiting in the round of 32. Frankowicz expresses concerns that the team will struggle to get past the first knockout round.