The United States enter a charged World Cup asking: what is enough?
Summary
Mauricio Pochettino is the coach of the U.S. men's soccer team as they prepare to co-host the World Cup in 2026. The U.S. team has mixed results so far, and while the coach and players believe they can succeed, they face high expectations and tough competition. Their performance may influence the future popularity and growth of soccer in the United States.Key Facts
- Mauricio Pochettino is coaching the U.S. men's soccer team on a $6 million per year contract, the highest ever paid by U.S. Soccer.
- The U.S. team’s record under Pochettino is 15 wins, 10 losses, and 1 draw over 22 months.
- The U.S. will co-host the 2026 World Cup and hopes to reach or surpass their best modern performance from 2002 (quarter-finals).
- The U.S. team is in a group with Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey, with no easy opponents expected.
- Christian Pulisic, the team’s star player, has expressed confidence in the team’s talent and preparation.
- Soccer is still growing in the U.S., where traditionally baseball, basketball, and American football are more popular.
- Pochettino notes the challenge of changing the sports culture in the U.S., mentioning the large Latino population familiar with soccer (football).
- A strong World Cup run could help soccer become more mainstream and attract more fans and investment in the U.S.
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