Alrighty, so with just one more year left in the 2026 World Cup cycle, head coach Mauricio Pochettino is feeling the pressure to get the USMNT in tip-top shape for the big tournament. Led by Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah, Weston McKennie, and other key players, the United States men are gearing up to host the competition on home soil next summer. But before they can do that, they’ve got to make sure they’re ready for the challenge.
After a disappointing performance in the final matches of the 2024/25 CONCACAF Nations League, the U.S. is now setting its sights on the 2025 Gold Cup, which is just around the corner. Pochettino is even considering arranging a friendly with Lionel Messi’s Argentina to test his squad before the World Cup. As hosts of the 2026 tournament, the U.S., along with Canada and Mexico, won’t have to go through CONCACAF qualification. So, finding competitive matches with real stakes is crucial for their preparation.
Now, let’s dive into the confirmed 2025 fixture list for the USMNT. The year kicked off with the January camp, where the team faced off against Venezuela and Costa Rica in friendlies. The CONCACAF Nations League semifinals in March ended in disappointment with losses to Panama and Canada. Next up is the 2025 Gold Cup, which will be the last major tournament before the 2026 World Cup. The U.S. will also play warmup friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland before the Gold Cup kicks off.
In the summer, the USMNT will compete in the Gold Cup, giving them a chance to hone their skills before the World Cup. The tournament will be held primarily in the western U.S. to minimize travel, as the Club World Cup will be taking place on the east coast simultaneously. The U.S. and Mexico have been dominating the Gold Cup in recent years, and the Americans will be looking to reclaim their throne this time around. With a tough group including Trinidad & Tobago, Haiti, and Saudi Arabia, the U.S. will have their work cut out for them.
But wait, there’s more! The U.S. U-20 team will also be in action, competing in the 2025 U-20 FIFA World Cup starting in late September. Hosted by Chile, the tournament will feature 24 teams from around the world, including the U.S. thanks to their runner-up finish at the CONCACAF U-20 Championship. Keep an eye out for young talent like Cavan Sullivan, who could make a splash on the international stage despite being just 15 years old.
So, there you have it – a jam-packed year ahead for the USMNT as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup. Stay tuned for all the action and drama as the team prepares to take on the world next summer.
