5ASIDE: United States’ Form Raises Concerns Months Before the World Cup
The United States fell to Portugal and heads into the 2026 World Cup with alarming numbers: 7 goals conceded and just 2 scored in their last two matches.
The United States national team raised serious concerns after another defeat during the international break, this time against the Portugal national team.
The most worrying stat: the team has conceded 7 goals in their last two matches while scoring only 2, highlighting a clear imbalance both defensively and offensively under Mauricio Pochettino.
Portugal strikes with efficiency
The Portuguese side capitalized on key moments. Francisco Trincão opened the scoring in the first half, while João Félix sealed the win with a volley in the second half.
The U.S. started with intensity but failed to maintain their level or respond to tactical adjustments.
A worrying pattern
Just like in the loss to Belgium, the U.S. lost control as the match progressed. Opponents dominated possession and punished key mistakes.
The lack of tactical response, combined with 7 goals conceded across two games, confirms a structural issue ahead of the World Cup.
Pulisic far from his best
Attention is also on Christian Pulisic, who is going through a difficult spell. The captain was deployed as a striker but failed to end his scoring drought.
With eight consecutive matches without a goal, he was substituted at halftime, reflecting frustration and the team’s attacking struggles — having scored just 2 goals in their last games.
A demanding group ahead
The U.S. will face Paraguay national team, Australia national team and Turkey national team in the group stage.
On paper, it’s a balanced group, but current form raises doubts about their chances of advancing.
Growing pressure on Pochettino
Criticism of Pochettino is increasing due to tactical decisions, constant lineup changes and the team’s lack of identity.
With upcoming friendlies against Senegal national team and Germany national team, there is little room for improvement.
Context and key takeaways
Time is running out. The U.S. heads into the World Cup with worrying numbers (7 goals conceded and only 2 scored in two matches) and must respond quickly to avoid a disappointing tournament on home soil.
