The Value of Facing Elite Teams: Preparing the USMNT for the 2026 World Cup

The recent selection of 23 players for the United States Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT), in preparation for friendly matches against Germany and Ghana, highlights the importance of facing world-class teams. In this article, we will examine why these games are crucial for the development of the USMNT and how they can help the team prepare for the most prestigious event in soccer, the 2026 World Cup.

First and foremost, it is vital to recognize that soccer in the United States is on the rise. Historically known for its excellence in sports like baseball, basketball, and American football, the country is gradually establishing itself as a force in the international soccer scene. The USMNT has made significant progress in recent years, qualifying for the 2022 World Cup and advancing to the round of 16, impressing many observers with its determination and quality of play.

However, to continue this upward trajectory and compete with the best teams in the world, such as Germany, it is essential for the USMNT to regularly face high-level opponents. Playing against world-class teams provides a unique opportunity to test their skills, tactics, and competitive mindset against the best that international soccer has to offer.

The friendlies against Germany and Ghana offer significant challenges. Germany, a four-time World Cup champion, is known for its tradition and excellence in soccer. Meanwhile, Ghana, an African powerhouse, has a strong competitive history and has already eliminated the United States in two World Cups. Facing teams with this pedigree is a valuable opportunity for the USMNT to measure its progress and identify areas for improvement.

Furthermore, exposing players to these high-level matches is crucial for their development. Many of the USMNT players play for elite European clubs, and playing against the best national teams complements their experience in the UEFA Champions League. They learn to handle pressure, develop technical skills, and gain confidence by facing elite opponents. These experiences are invaluable as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup, where they will face some of the world’s top national selections on American soil.

Moreover, continuity is essential in any team sport, and selecting players who have excelled in previous competitions, such as the 2022 World Cup and the Concacaf Nations League, contributes to a cohesive and well-integrated team. Coach Gregg Berhalter emphasizes the importance of maintaining continuity and building a solid foundation for the team’s future.

The importance of facing world-class teams cannot be underestimated for the USMNT. These games provide crucial challenges, player development, and an opportunity to assess the team’s progress. As the United States prepares to host the 2026 World Cup, these friendlies represent critical steps on their path to competing with the best national teams in the world. The expectation is that the USMNT will continue to grow and impress, bringing pride and excitement to soccer fans across the country.