OneFootball University: Can the USMNT win World Cup 2026? | OneFootball

OneFootball University: Can the USMNT win World Cup 2026? | OneFootball

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Alex Mott·2 de junio de 2026

OneFootball University: Can the USMNT win World Cup 2026?

Imagen del artículo:OneFootball University: Can the USMNT win World Cup 2026?

Can the USA men's national team win the World Cup in 2026? It's the question that all US fans want to know.

Here’s some reasons why it’s plausible that Mauricio Pochettino's men can claim the biggest prize of them all ...

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1. Home advantage

  1. Playing on home soil has historically benefited host nations. Teams like South Korea (2002, semi-finals) England (1966, winners) and France (1998, winners) outperformed expectations whilst performing in front of their own crowds. Familiarity with the venues, local support and the absence of extensive travel could help the USMNT.

2. Emerging talent

  • The USMNT has one of the most talented generations in its history. Key players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, Gio Reyna, and Sergiño Dest are playing and starting for major European clubs.
  • Additionally, younger prospects like Ricardo Pepi and Yunus Musah are developing quickly and could peak by 2026.

3. European experience

  1. Unlike previous generations, many of the U.S. players are now regular starters at the biggest clubs in Europe. This exposure to varying styles and tactics should improve the team's adaptability heading into the tournament.

4. An improving MLS

  1. Major League Soccer is improving and while not yet on par with Europe’s top leagues, has fostered growth and development in youth soccer across the U.S. MLS academies now offer a pipeline for young talent, many of whom move on to Europe or develop into high-quality domestic players. That depth could serve as a critical asset in a long, demanding tournament like the World Cup.

5. Expanded format

  1. The 2026 World Cup will expand to 48 teams, which may result in a slightly easier path through the early rounds for strong teams. However, this format also means more knockout rounds, making endurance and squad depth crucial.

6. Choice of coach

  1. US Soccer have gone above and beyond with their choice of coach for the World Cup with former Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea boss, Mauricio Pochettino, being lured across the Atlantic. Pochettino is widely considered one of the best coaches anywhere in the world and will be a huge asset to the USMNT at their home tournament