Former U.S. national team goaltender Tim Howard gave a grim view of the USMNT's chances of winning the 2026 World Cup. He said on the "Unfiltered Soccer" podcast with former teammate Landon Donovan that it will be difficult for the U.S. to continue its success in the tournament after reaching the round of 32. "There's no way the U.S. can win the World Cup," Howard said, noting they have to play their best games in consecutive rounds in the round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals and finals. "That's the reality."
In their first match in Group D, the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0. The USA played confidently and impressively in this game, but beyond the group stage they will face some of the best teams in the world. Donovan was optimistic about the USMNT's chances of advancing, but ultimately agreed with Howard's conclusion. "Can we do it? Yes. But have we proven that this group can beat the top teams? No," he said. "If we continue to play the way we are, we will be able to compete with any team in the World Cup. But it's really hard to do that four times in a row. Once we get some momentum, you never know what will happen."
The United States has already clinched a spot in the knockout round, but one final group stage game remains, against Turkey at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Christian Pulisic, who missed the game against Australia with a calf injury, could be available for the game against Turkey. However, with Pulisic already confirmed to be in the last 32, team staff may give Pulisic more time to recover.
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