3 Things We Learnt After USMNT's Friendly Game vs Germany Heading Into the World Cup
After the match against Germany, the USMNT is now fully focused on the 2026 World Cup as they prepare to play their World Cup opener against Paraguay on June 12.
The USMNT lost 2-1 to Germany at Soldier Field, and this match has brought some conclusions to some fans ahead of the World Cup.
Certain players seem to have secured their starting positions for the World Cup, and all the preparation is over. Next up is the World Cup for the USMNT.
There are positives and negatives surrounding the USMNT ahead of the World Cup in terms of players, formations, and more.
The USMNT World Cup Starting XI
The match against Germany may have given fans a sneak peek of what to expect this summer at the World Cup in terms of the starting lineup for the USMNT.
Mauricio Pochettino put out a strong lineup against Germany and made no changes at the start of the second half.
Our XI in the Windy City#USMNT x @CocaColapic.twitter.com/x6ANKdEQia
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 6, 2026
Fans can expect a similar lineup for the opening match against Paraguay on Friday. Balogun may seem to be the striker Pochettino will choose to play up top with Christian Pulisic, and may still have questions for the right-hand side.
Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Antonee Robinson, and Tim Ream seem to have their starting positions secured, although some fans still feel insecure about having Ream in the back. Malik Tillman has showcased two great performances and may also be a key player for Pochettino for the opening game and during the World Cup.
The slight doubt may be the formation Pochettino will decide to use, but it seems that the head coach may use the 4-2-3-1 formation after utilizing it the whole game against a tough opponent like Germany. The 3-4-3 formation could be the USMNT's plan B.
Antonee Robinson & Sergino Dest Are Crucial
Without a doubt, Pochettino will count on Antonee Robinson and Sergino Dest this summer at the World Cup.
Robinson will succeed in a natural left-back position or as a left wing-back, while Sergiño Dest can shine as a right wing-back or as a right winger, like today against Germany.
Pochettino tried his 3-4-3 formation against Senegal with both full-backs starting, and he used both players for his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, with Dest offering pace on the right that can help with transitions.
USMNT fans will hope Robinson is fit for the World Cup opener against Paraguay after the player was seen limping after being taken off today.
Matt Freese is the USMNT #1 GK
With the match against Germany being the final friendly before the World Cup, it seems very clear that Matt Freese will be the starting goalkeeper for the USMNT in the World Cup this summer.
Matt Turner and Chris Brady played 45 minutes each against Senegal last weekend, and Freese played the full match today against Germany.
The real duel for the starting goalkeeper position was between Turner and Freese, and it seems that Pochettino is more convinced of Freese, who made two saves today.
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This story was originally published June 6, 2026 at 4:47 PM.