Mauricio Pochettino’s U.S. team is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by hosting Germany, a four-time world champion, in an international friendly at Soldier Field in Chicago on Saturday night. This match represents their first encounter since Germany’s 3-1 victory in Connecticut in October 2023.
Interest in the U.S. team is heightened as they prepare to co-host the World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
The U.S. national team shared images on their official X account of players flying to Chicago on an American Airlines flight with the caption “COMIN’ TO YA, CHICAGO!”, reflecting the excitement among fans for this significant pre-tournament challenge.
The U.S. enters this match following a narrow 3-2 win over Senegal last weekend, recovering from earlier losses against Belgium and Portugal. The team has claimed five victories in their past nine friendlies, seeking to find their footing before facing Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey in Group D at the World Cup.
Christian Pulisic is anticipated to be a crucial player after his goal against Senegal, with Borussia Monchengladbach’s Giovanni Reyna also expected to play an important role.
On the other hand, Germany arrives with a strong record under Julian Nagelsmann, having won eight consecutive internationals and netting 27 goals in that stretch. Their last match saw them defeat Finland 4-0.
Following disappointing exits in the group stages of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, Germany looks revitalized under Nagelsmann and is considered one of the tournament favorites. They comfortably led their qualifying group and maintained that momentum with wins over Switzerland, Ghana, and Finland in recent friendlies.
Kai Havertz might make a return after participating in training earlier this week post-Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League final loss, while Florian Wirtz could be key in creating opportunities, given Jamal Musiala’s playing time is managed thoughtfully.
Team News
USA defender Chris Richards is uncertain due to an ankle injury, while Christian Pulisic is set to lead the forward line once more. Sergino Dest and Antonee Robinson are likely to be positioned as wing-backs.
For Germany, Deniz Undav may be rested following a recent injury concern against Finland. Manuel Neuer will not be available, while Kai Havertz is back in training and could possibly play.
Possible Lineups
USA possible starting lineup:
Turner; Freeman, Ream, McKenzie; Dest, McKennie, Adams, Robinson; Reyna, Pepi, Pulisic
Germany possible starting lineup:
Baumann; Kimmich, Tah, Schotterbeck, Brown; Goretzka, Pavlovic; Karl, Wirtz, Leweling; Woltemade
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV Now |
| Kick-off Time | 19:30 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts USA 1-3 Germany
Germany heads into the match with significant confidence, tactical cohesion, and scoring prowess, while the U.S. will look to leverage the advantage of playing at home and gauge their readiness against a top-tier opponent before the World Cup. A thrilling match is expected with opportunities arising for both teams.
