The United States men's national team is set to begin its 2026 FIFA World Cup journey on home soil, and the squad received a high-profile sendoff before taking the field against Paraguay.
Just hours before Mauricio Pochettino's team opened its tournament, President Donald Trump delivered a video message wishing the Americans well as they prepare for one of the biggest sporting events in the country's history.
The message, shared by the official USMNT social media account, arrived as anticipation continues to build around a roster led by stars such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams and Folarin Balogun. The United States enters the tournament with expectations as one of the host nations and hopes of making a deep run in front of home crowds.
PPhoto by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Trump Offers Support Ahead of World Cup Opener
In the video, Trump congratulated the team for reaching the World Cup and encouraged the players as they begin their campaign against Paraguay.
"On behalf of the United States of America, I want to wish our great U.S. Men's National Team good luck in the World Cup," Trump said. "The entire country is behind you."
The message comes as the United States attempts to capitalize on what many believe is one of the most talented generations in program history.
Pochettino's 26-man roster features a blend of experienced international veterans and younger stars entering their prime years. Pulisic, McKennie and Sergiño Dest are all 27 years old, while Balogun, Gio Reyna and Ricardo Pepi represent the next wave of American talent.
USMNT Looking To Make Statement
The World Cup presents a major opportunity for the United States to build on its recent international progress.
Veteran defender Tim Ream, now 38 years old, brings leadership and experience to the back line, while Adams is expected to anchor the midfield. Up front, Balogun and Pepi give the Americans multiple scoring options after both enjoyed productive club seasons in Europe.
Perhaps no player will face more attention than Pulisic. The longtime U.S. star enters the tournament as the team's captain and leading active international goal scorer. After years of carrying expectations for American soccer, he now has a chance to lead the United States on the sport's biggest stage in front of home fans.
With the opening match against Paraguay now here, the United States has received support from across the country, including a message directly from the President.
The next step is turning that encouragement into results on the field as the USMNT begins its quest for a memorable World Cup run.
