The anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is building as the event approaches in North America. The U.S. men’s national team will kick off their campaign against Paraguay in Los Angeles on June 12, sparking discussions about potential starters for coach Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.
With various opinions circulating, expert FOX Sports Soccer Analyst Stu Holden shared his thoughts on how the U.S. can secure a spot in the World Cup.
Goalkeeper Matt Freeze has established himself as the top choice following a standout performance in the 2025 Gold Cup. The NYCFC player is favored by Pochettino, positioning him ahead of veteran options like Matt Turner, who started in the 2022 World Cup.
Defensively, the team faces a choice between employing a three or four-man backline, with Holden favoring a trio comprising Alex Freeman (recently signed from Villarreal), Chris Richards of Crystal Palace, and 38-year-old Tim Ream.
Holden appreciates the flexibility of this lineup, noting that Pochettino often adapts formations depending on possession. The wing-back positions will likely feature Anthony ‘Jedi’ Robinson, returning from a knee injury, and Tim Weah, whose versatility and defensive abilities may edge out Sergiño Dest.
Midfield choices hinge on Tyler Adams’ recovery from an MCL injury. If cleared, he could partner with Lyon’s Tanner Tessmann, a surprising choice over Weston McKennie, who has been prolific in attack for Juventus.
With McKennie potentially playing further up the field alongside goal-scoring threats like Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun, Holden is optimistic about their combined impact. Despite managing lingering injuries, Pulisic is expected to be a starter, while Balogun faces competition from strikers like Ricardo Pepi, who is recovering from an injury.
Holden expressed confidence in this formation, which he believes can lead to a strong performance against Paraguay.
Fan Take: This analysis is important for soccer fans as it highlights the evolving strategies and player dynamics that could shape the U.S. team’s performance on a global stage. As the World Cup nears, the anticipation of how these decisions will affect not just match outcomes but the growth and visibility of soccer in the U.S. adds to the excitement of the event.
