With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching and the United States set to co-host the prestigious tournament, the pressure is mounting on the men's national team to perform at their best. However, recent friendly losses have left questions hanging over the team’s preparations. Former USA midfielder Cobi Jones shared his thoughts on these struggles, discussing key issues the team faces as they aim for their first World Cup quarterfinals appearance since 2002.
A Tough Week for the USA: Two Losses Raise Concerns
The U.S. men’s national team faced a challenging week, suffering two defeats in international friendlies. They were beaten 5-2 by Belgium on Sunday and then suffered a 2-0 loss to Portugal on Wednesday. These results have raised concerns about the team’s readiness ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Cobi Jones, appearing on "First Things First," acknowledged the disappointment of these losses but also defended team leader Christian Pulisic’s positive outlook.
"You can’t be happy with the results, no matter who the opponent is," Jones said, reflecting on the team's performance. "With the World Cup so close, it's concerning to see these results. As a leader, Pulisic needs to stay positive and bring the team together. With only a few games left before the World Cup, now is the time to focus on uniting the squad and improving ahead of the tournament."
The Talent Gap: Comparing the U.S. and Portugal
One of the key takeaways from the Portugal match was the apparent talent gap between the two teams. Following the game, coach Mauricio Pochettino made a comment that the U.S. doesn’t have any players in the top-100 globally, including Pulisic. This statement has sparked debate, but Jones doesn’t believe it was a personal slight aimed at Pulisic.
"I don’t think it’s a dig at Pulisic specifically," Jones explained. "It’s a broader comment about the global landscape of soccer. The U.S. doesn’t have many players considered top-100 by world standards. Pulisic knows the challenges the team faces and should be prepared for the ups and downs, especially with the World Cup approaching."
Finding Pulisic’s Best Position: A Key to Scoring Success
Christian Pulisic has struggled to find the back of the net in recent months, failing to score for the U.S. since 2024 and not finding success with AC Milan this year. Jones believes that Pulisic’s scoring issues can be addressed by finding his best position on the field. The key, according to Jones, is placing Pulisic in the right spot where he can be most effective.
"For Pulisic to start scoring again, the team needs to figure out his best position," said Jones. "He’s been experimented with in different areas, like on the left and in the center, but I think his most dangerous position is coming in off the wing and cutting inside to have a go at goal. That’s where he’s at his best."
Looking Ahead: USA's Next Steps Before the World Cup
Despite the recent setbacks, the U.S. men’s national team is turning its attention to the next phase of their preparations. They have two upcoming friendlies that will serve as final tests before the World Cup group stage begins. On May 31, they will face Senegal at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, followed by a match against Germany on June 6 at Soldier Field in Chicago.
The team will need to take lessons from these losses and focus on getting the right tactical setup, ensuring that key players like Pulisic are utilized to their full potential. With the World Cup now just months away, the pressure is on for the U.S. to solidify their squad and make a strong statement on the world stage.
