Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 7
USMNT Plans 4 Home Matches After Round-of-16 Exit as Pochettino Weighs 2030 Cycle
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 7

USMNT Plans 4 Home Matches After Round-of-16 Exit as Pochettino Weighs 2030 Cycle

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 7

Summary

  • Sept. 21-Oct. 6 is the USMNT’s next window, and U.S. Soccer plans four home matches after players left camp following Monday’s Round-of-16 loss to Belgium.
  • Four games are possible in that extended FIFA window, but European opponents are unavailable because of Nations League commitments, leaving South American teams as the main options.
  • Mauricio Pochettino’s future remains unsettled after his 20-month deal, though U.S. Soccer said it had positive pre-World Cup talks and expects discussions to resume after a short break.
  • 2030 planning now starts with an aging core—Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie will be 31—while younger options such as Alex Freeman, Malik Tillman and Noahkai Banks shape the next cycle.
  • November brings Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals, the Gold Cup follows next summer, and World Cup qualifying for 2030 begins late next year.

Insights

After 2026's hosting challenges, can FIFA prevent logistical chaos for the six-nation, three-continent 2030 World Cup?
With its current stars aging, does the U.S. have the right young talent pipeline to become a true contender by 2030?