The United States is gearing up for the FIFA World Cup, and the USMNT is in good form going into the summer. They have some interesting matches next month, and Cobi Jones is confident in the team.
Cobi Jones Makes Bold Claims About USMNT Ahead of FIFA World Cup
Jones was part of the USMNT squad at three FIFA World Cups: 1994, 1998, and 2002. He was also part of the CONCACAF Gold Cup-winning squad in 2002, so he knows what it takes to be successful at the international stage.
Mauricio Pochettino had a tough start as the USMNT head coach, but has since steadied the ship. The recent friendlies in 2025 against Australia and Paraguay showed that the manager knows how to bring out the best in his squad.
The Argentine coach has changed the formation and tactics, and Jones believes the players are hitting their peaks at the right time. He spoke to NBC this week, saying that he has confidence in the players and hailed them as a talented squad who can do anything on their day.
“For this U.S. team … are we on the correct pathway? Yes, as [head coach Mauricio] Pochettino has come in, there were struggles at the beginning … but look, now we’re slowly starting to get better. We’re starting to get proper results … and starting to peak at the right time, and that’s what it’s all about. But this U.S. team — they have the talent. If they can come together and get the fire as well, tie that all together, anything is possible.”
The USMNT will have more opportunities to fine-tune the tactics ahead of the FIFA World Cup, as friendlies against Belgium and Portugal are scheduled for next month. The two sides are touted as among the best in the world, and Pochettino will be able to test the players he wants to take to the tournament this summer.
READ MORE: USMNT Hero Christian Pulisic Backed to Become Potential Replacement for Premier League Superstar
Just days before the FIFA World Cup, Pochettino’s men will also face two tough warm-up games against Senegal and Germany. The calendar is perfectly set for the players to gain confidence and the manager to work on his tactics, before they start the campaign.
In the FIFA World Cup, the USMNT has been drawn with Paraguay and Australia, while the final side will be decided next month after the playoffs. Jones also spoke about the atmosphere at the World Cup, saying that he is excited to see the celebration around the country.
