In fairness, the US did just spank Uruguay 5-1. Apparently Poch is doing a very good job there with a limited group of players. Who knew...
I don't think he's been doing a particularly good job there actually. At least the US fans aren't that pleased with him. They underperformed in this year's Gold Cup (which they hosted), as well as last year's Copa America (which they hosted). That said, I think Poch will get them to the semi finals next summer.
I think the draw would have to be kind to them for them to get that far. Can't see them beating France, Spain, England, Brazil or Argentina in a knock out game.
I couldn't see South Korea beating Spain and Italy but it happened! I think it looks like Italy, Denmark, Poland and Turkey.
True but (one way or another!) it took several shocking refereeing decisions for that to happen. With VAR there's no chance that happens again on that scale.
The US will take at least one big scalp. On home soil they can beat anyone I reckon. They won’t beat three big teams in a row, but one or two is possible.
Thanks Tom So then, we know the results of the WC in advance: Knock out: USA v England 2-0 Quarter Final: USA v France 2-0 Semi Final: USA v Brazil 2-0 Final: USA v Spain 2-0
Think there's a last 32 round as well now isn't there? So 72 matches to eliminate a third of teams lol.
I think they could take a Germany, Holland, Italy or Belgium who would be a big scalp but not playing at their best. It's also worth pointing out that the US lost to Panama back in March so they're not that good.
Interesting - I read an article the other day saying the opposite, that they had a dogshit bunch of players who he's managed to pull together into a coherent unit. Will try and find it.
Yeah, here you go (with requisite instruction to put through a paywall remover if needed). https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6819260/2025/11/19/mauricio-pochettino-usmnt-uruguay-world-cup/
Maybe. It's hard to know. The media there are buzzing from a good result, albeit a friendly against a team with a reported rift in the dressing room. For every good result the US have, they will have a bad one. Like Tom said, they lost to Panama not so long ago. I think their hardcore fans are a lot more sceptical, as they see themselves as the true powerhouse of CONCACAF, but they have never quite reached this goal. As for the media; could be that they're just trying to excite the average American, knowing that the public there won't be too enthusiastic about getting behind a bang-average national team next summer. I actually think they're got a decent squad. They can field a team of players from the top 5 league easily. They always do well at World Cups, and I reckon the home support for them will be huge. They are decent enough all over the pitch, and they have some dangerous front men. Think it will all fall in place for them next year. And yeah, having a top manager can't hurt. USA v Norway final maybe
A bit late to the discussion, but worth remembering corruption and incompetence are not the same thing. For example I do not believe Graham Poll was corrupt
Potential Group of Death - Argentina, Morocco, Norway, Italy Potential Group of Life - Canada, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde Rugby Championship group is also possible - Argentina, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand.
