U.S. Men’s National Team Prepares for World Cup
CHICAGO — Heading into the World Cup, the U.S. men’s national team sought to challenge themselves with tough opponents.
However, this approach led to three losses in four games before their pivotal match against Paraguay on Friday. A 2-1 defeat to Germany at Soldier Field, watched by a full house, showed a different kind of performance compared to earlier losses to Belgium and Portugal in March.
Despite facing a team that seemed ready to dominate them, the Americans displayed notable resilience and aggression, creating opportunities that hinted they might have scored more.
Still, the clock is ticking on whether these defeats can be brushed off, as the final whistle transitioned quickly into travel preparations for California. It’s pretty clear now that results are what count, and while there’s some pride in competing against a top tournament team, the Americans’ outlook seems rather precarious—especially without Chris Richards due to an ankle injury.
Leroy Sane’s goal to clinch the match was just part of the problem; defensive lapses by Miles Robinson and Tim Ream during a German throw-in allowed Sane to find the net off a pass from Kai Havertz. Earlier, Kimmich’s free kick caught Robinson flat-footed, leading to the Germans scoring first.
Outside of conceding goals, there were multiple instances where Ream and Robinson struggled, making it too easy for Germany to exploit their weaknesses. Alex Freeman, Sergiño Dest, and Anthony Robinson were sometimes caught too far up the field, leaving their positions vulnerable.
On the offensive front, the USMNT appeared threatening. Yet, Christian Pulisic missed two shots from close range, both saved by German goalkeeper Oliver Baumann, preventing Malik Tillman from capitalizing on the rebound. Dest continued to impress, suggesting he might have a strong showing in the upcoming World Cup, while Jedi Robinson scored a fantastic volley that was undeniably spectacular.
As coach Mauricio Pochettino substituted his starters in the 73rd minute, the reserves pressed on, with Brenden Aaronson making a crucial attempt to equalize in the dying minutes of the game.
At this juncture, the U.S. seems to be teetering between being an exciting team to watch and one that can truly excel when it matters most.
Except for Richards’ absence, the lineup deployed by Pochettino looked set to face Paraguay in their World Cup opener, with Matt Freese standing firm in goal and demonstrating he’s still got the starting role under control.
Germany’s skill was evident, and it felt like the U.S. was often on the back foot, particularly at the match’s outset. They appeared caught off guard by Germany’s high pressing and struggled to mount counters—especially in the opening 15 minutes.
The game felt precarious early on, with Germany almost scoring again shortly after their initial goal, only being denied by an offside call.
But things changed. Pulisic’s relentless pursuit to regain possession was a refreshing spark, even if it pulled him out of position. Eventually, the U.S. found a rhythm in their pressing, albeit slightly tentative at first.
Robinson’s goal was a standout moment, executed with his left foot from just outside the box, striking a powerful shot that hit the back of the net.
If they can carry that energy into the World Cup, it could be a significant factor for them.
The iconic song “Free Bird,” associated with USA Hockey’s Olympic victories, resonated in Soldier Field, filling the atmosphere with excitement as the World Cup approaches. It felt like a moment to celebrate, though perhaps there’s more to come in future matches.
