Overview

• The U.S. fell behind opposing fans at the Gold Cup semifinals in St. Louis and the final in Houston, a trend that coach Mauricio Pochettino and players have flagged for reversal.
• Clint Dempsey argues that on-field success blending fight and quality will motivate American crowds to return to USMNT matches.
• The team has ten FIFA-designated friendlies—two each in September, October, November, March and June—before opening the World Cup on June 12 in Inglewood.
• As one of three co-hosts, the U.S. will be seeded and avoid a top-10 opponent in its group, with the chance to sidestep a strong nation in the round of 32.
• Pochettino succeeded Gregg Berhalter after early exits in the 2024 Copa America and this year’s Nations League and Gold Cup, ushering in a culture of roster competition and tactical refinement.