The United States men’s national team received a message of support from President Donald Trump on the eve of their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino and captain Tim Ream listening as the president offered encouragement ahead of the tournament on home soil.The United States begin their World Cup campaign against Paraguay in Los Angeles on Friday night, with expectations high as one of the tournament’s three co-host nations alongside Mexico and Canada.According to the USMNT’s official social media accounts, Trump called the squad on Thursday to wish them luck before their Group D opener.The call was facilitated by Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, who addressed the players before handing the phone to the president.“I’m standing in front of 26 champions and a great coach,” Giuliani told Trump. “They’re ready to go and run through a wall.”
Trump backs Pochettino and the United States
Speaking directly to Pochettino, who was seated alongside captain Tim Ream, Trump praised the Argentine coach and expressed confidence in the team’s chances.“I just called to say you’re a fantastic guy, a fantastic coach,” Trump said.He continued: “I’ve heard all about your record and your success and I know how great the players are. I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way. I just want to wish you a lot of luck.”According to Fox Sports reporter Jenny Taft, Trump also delivered a message aimed at easing the pressure on the squad ahead of the tournament.“We’re all rooting for you. The pressure is gone. Have some fun,” the president told the players.Pochettino thanked Trump for the support and stressed that the squad understood the responsibility of representing the host nation at the tournament.“Thank you so much for your support, Mr. President,” Pochettino replied.With his hand resting on Ream’s shoulder, he added: “We’re going to do everything [to make] you proud and all the people here in this country.”
A new era under Pochettino
The World Cup marks the biggest test yet for Pochettino since he was appointed United States head coach in August 2024.The former Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager was brought in to guide the Americans through a home World Cup cycle and help the team make a deep run on football’s biggest stage.
United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino listens to a question during a press conference ahead of his FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., Thursday, June 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
The United States enter the tournament as hosts in Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye.Their opening fixture against Paraguay takes place at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, one of the headline venues of the expanded 48-team tournament.
Trump absent from opener but administration represented
Despite personally contacting the team, Trump was not expected to attend the opening match against Paraguay.Instead, several members of his administration were scheduled to be present in Los Angeles.The US State Department announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin would attend the fixture.
United States men’s national soccer team pose after announcement of the team’s roster, Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in New York, ahead of the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)
In a statement, the department described the World Cup as “a landmark moment for the Trump Administration, showcasing American leadership and hospitality to a global audience as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.”While Trump is skipping the opener, a White House official told USA Today that he plans to attend the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
World Cup atmosphere builds in Los Angeles
The United States’ opening night was set to be accompanied by a major entertainment programme before kick-off.The opening ceremony at SoFi Stadium was scheduled to begin 90 minutes before the match and feature performances from pop star Katy Perry and rapper Future.As the hosts prepare to launch their campaign, the call from the president adds another layer to an occasion already carrying significant weight.For Pochettino and his players, however, the focus remains firmly on what happens once the ball starts rolling against Paraguay.After years of preparation and anticipation, the United States are finally ready to begin their home World Cup journey.
