USMNT Receives Presidential Call of Support Ahead of World Cup Opener

The United States Men's National Team got a high-profile pep talk on Thursday evening, receiving a phone call from former President Donald Trump ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup opener. The call, intended to boost morale, came approximately 24 hours before the team was set to face Paraguay in Inglewood, California, marking a significant moment for the squad on home soil.

A 45-second video clip shared on the national team's official social media account showed Andrew Giuliani, identified as the White House's World Cup czar, facilitating the conversation. While manager Mauricio Pochettino and captain Tim Ream were the only team members clearly visible, Giuliani indicated that all 26 players were present in the room for the call. Trump reportedly commended Pochettino as a "fantastic coach" and praised the team's potential, expressing confidence in their ability to "go all the way" in the tournament.

Pochettino, in response, conveyed his gratitude for the former president's encouragement, assuring him and the nation that the team would strive to perform at their best. This World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, features an expanded 48-team format across 16 venues, adding an extra layer of anticipation for the host nation's performance. The USMNT will be looking to make a strong statement in their first match at SoFi Stadium.