The United States Men's National Team stepped onto a rain‑slick Soldier Field on Saturday, facing a formidable German side in a pre‑tournament friendly. The conditions were far from ideal, but the match quickly delivered a flash of brilliance when Kai Havertz opened the scoring from a free‑kick that curled over the wall.
For head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the game was less about the result and more about instilling belief in a squad that has been together for only a short time. The friendly against Germany provides a rare opportunity to test tactical ideas and build chemistry before the team’s World Cup debut.
The United States will soon turn its attention to Paraguay, a rival it has met nine times before, most recently edging a 2‑1 victory in November 2025. That win, coupled with the experience of players like Miles Robinson, adds a layer of confidence as the Americans prepare for their opening match in the 2026 tournament.
Looking Ahead to Paraguay
The upcoming clash with Paraguay will be the tenth meeting between the two nations, a milestone that highlights the evolving rivalry and the stakes involved for both sides.