CHICAGO — U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino believes his team’s 2-1 defeat to Germany at Soldier Field has generated the level of excitement among American fans that he had anticipated.
Growing Enthusiasm for U.S. Soccer
The game attracted a sold-out audience of 63,636, following a notable turnout of 57,741 in Charlotte, North Carolina, where the United States emerged victorious against Senegal just days earlier.
Praising the Fan Engagement
Right back Sergiño Dest expressed surprise at the energetic crowd in Charlotte, while Pochettino and midfielder Tyler Adams commended the enthusiastic audience in Chicago following Saturday’s match.
Realizing the Challenges Ahead
Pochettino reflected on his initial expectations, stating, “I thought the excitement for the U.S. national team would be greater a year and a half ago. Perhaps I was mistaken. We needed to reignite that enthusiasm, and maybe our initial expectations were too high as we embarked on this World Cup journey.” He added, “But now, the excitement is palpable.”
Increasing Attendance Ahead of the World Cup
Attracting American soccer fans has presented challenges in recent years, particularly as the U.S. automatically qualifies for the 2026 World Cup by virtue of being a host nation. Prior to this spring, only one game in the U.S. had drawn over 35,000 fans, and 12 of the 16 previous matches had attendance figures below 21,000.
Positive Reactions Amidst Defeats
Despite suffering defeats in two well-attended spring friendlies, interest in U.S. soccer is on the rise as the World Cup draws nearer.
Match Highlights and Team Resilience
Despite conceding an early goal from Kai Havertz in the second minute, the U.S. team displayed commendable control for the next hour, equalizing just before halftime with a stunning volley from Anthony Robinson. Leroy Sane restored Germany’s lead in the 57th minute, yet the Americans continued to press for an equalizer, forcing several critical saves from the German goalkeeper.
Pochettino’s Reflections on Team Performance
“We allowed the first goal early in the match, but the team’s reaction afterward was very encouraging,” Pochettino commented post-match. From the early stages to the 56th minute, the U.S. outshot Germany 11 to 7, with an expected goal rate of 0.8 compared to Germany’s 0.43. The equalizer from Robinson highlighted the team’s resilience and unity under pressure.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
The U.S. Men’s National Team will begin its World Cup campaign this Friday against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
