United States President, Donald Trump, has thrown his support behind the United States men’s national team, saying he believes the hosts have what it takes to challenge for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.
Trump delivered the message during a phone call with head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, and the squad ahead of their opening Group D match against Paraguay on Friday night.
The call was facilitated by White House World Cup Task Force Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Giuliani.
Although Trump was absent from the opening match at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, he reached out to the team before kick-off to offer encouragement as the co-hosts began their campaign on home soil.
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Addressing Pochettino, the US president praised the Argentine coach and expressed confidence in the team’s prospects.
“Well, I just got to say you’re a fantastic guy, a fantastic coach, and you’re all about your record and your success, and I know how great the players are,” Trump said.
“I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way. I just want to wish you a lot of luck.”
Trump’s message came just hours before the United States produced one of the standout performances of the tournament’s opening round, defeating Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles.
Folarin Balogun scored twice, while Paraguay defender Damian Bobadilla put through his own net before substitute Giovanni Reyna sealed the victory with a stunning late strike.
The result gave Pochettino a winning start at the World Cup and put the Americans in a strong position in Group D as they chase a place in the knockout rounds.
The United States is co-hosting the expanded 48-team tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, with the country staging the majority of the 104 matches.
Pochettino has repeatedly said his ambition extends beyond simply reaching the knockout stage, insisting his team should aim to compete for the title.
