The U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team is gearing up for the World Cup with a crucial friendly match against Paraguay on March 15, 2025, at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania. This encounter marks a significant milestone as Coach Mauricio Pochettino approaches the final preparations for selecting the 26-man squad for the tournament, set to begin on June 12, 2025. Following the Paraguay match, the team will face Uruguay in Tampa on March 19, 2025, further refining their strategy ahead of the global competition.
Pochettino hinted at a preference for announcing a streamlined roster in May, rather than the traditional larger training camp. This approach aims to minimize the emotional toll on players who may miss the cut. With only four remaining friendlies before the World Cup, the stakes are high for aspiring players to showcase their skills. “No one can feel safe,” Pochettino emphasized, underscoring that even established stars like Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams are not guaranteed spots on the roster.
Injuries and personal matters have sidelined key players, creating opportunities for newcomers. The current squad includes only seven players from the 2022 World Cup roster, with Joe Scally and Gio Reyna returning after extended absences. In contrast, players like Ricardo Pepi and Sergino Dest are aiming to prove their worth after struggling with injuries in recent months.
Pochettino’s mandate, since his appointment 14 months ago, was to rejuvenate a team that had faced challenges under former coach Gregg Berhalter. The U.S. team has experienced mixed results, including four consecutive losses in the spring, followed by an improved record of 6 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses in their last ten matches. This friendly series against South American teams presents a valuable opportunity to evaluate the team’s readiness.
The match against Paraguay is particularly important, as Pochettino recognizes the quality of their opponents. “I think Paraguay is a very good team,” he stated, praising Coach Gustavo Alfaro for his work in the World Cup qualification process. Paraguay finished sixth in the CONMEBOL standings, showcasing their competitive edge.
Pochettino has also implemented a tactical shift to a 3-4-3 formation, aiming to strengthen the defense while maximizing the potential of wingbacks. As this system unfolds, players like Mark McKenzie and Auston Trusty will have the chance to demonstrate their capabilities. Scally and Dest may also find themselves in new roles, allowing Pochettino to assess their adaptability to a system that emphasizes both defensive solidity and attacking flair.
With Pulisic absent, the U.S. will need a primary playmaker. Brenden Aaronson is poised to step up, along with Reyna, Diego Luna, and Timmy Tillman. The striker position appears to be clarifying, with Haji Wright performing well in the English League Championship, while Pepi and Arsenal’s Folarin Balogun are also looking to make an impact.
Pochettino’s leadership style focuses on unity and commitment, addressing previous internal conflicts that affected team morale. As the U.S. prepares for crucial matches, he remains committed to evaluating players objectively, regardless of past dynamics. The upcoming friendly against Paraguay will serve as a critical assessment point for the team as they aim to arrive fit and ready for the World Cup.
“The most important thing is that all the players arrive fit, in very good condition the day that we are going to start the World Cup,” Pochettino concluded, highlighting the team’s focus on preparation and performance as they embark on this exciting journey.
