After two disappointing losses at the Concacaf Nations League this month, the U.S. men’s national team has just 14 months and a limited number of games to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, which many hope will promote the growth of soccer in the country due to an impressive showing from the home team.
This summer, they will return to play in June for friendlies against Turkiye and Switzerland, the first time a full-strength U.S. team faces a European opponent since October 2023. These matches will act as practice for the Concacaf Gold Cup starting on June 14.
Though head coach Mauricio Pochettino will have most of his squad available, he will likely be without key players like Borussia Dortmund’s Gio Reyna and Juventus’ Weston McKennie as they are expected to participate in the 32-team FIFA Club World Cup occurring simultaneously.
Pochettino insists that there is still ample time to make the necessary enhancements for a robust World Cup performance, stating, “It’s better now because I think we have time”. He also noted that if significant issues arise by next year, it would indicate a failure to strategize effectively.
Upcoming Schedule for USMNT
- June 7: USMNT vs. Turkiye (friendly)
- June 10: USMNT vs. Switzerland (friendly)
- June 14-July 6: Concacaf Gold Cup
- Sept 1-9: International window
- Oct 6-14: International window
- Nov 10-18: International window
- March 21-31, 2026: International window
- June 1-9, 2026: International window
- June 12, 2026: USMNT’s World Cup opener
- June 19, 2026: USMNT’s second group stage game
- June 25, 2026: USMNT’s group stage finale
