USMNT

GROUPED OR GLORY: Group A

Published

4 years ago

November 16, 2022

Scott Brevard

Qatar | Elo: 49 | FIFA: 50 |

History: On December 2nd, 2010, The International Federation of Football(FIFA) declared that Qatar would host the Middle-East’s first Coupe du Monde. The decision sparked outrage, a bevy of accusations, and a steady stream of controversy, obscuring one of the more remarkable on-field turn-arounds in international football. When Al Enabbi were awarded the crown jewel of sport, The Maroon were ranked 114th(FIFA) having managed just 1 win across 8 games in the final round of AFC – The Asian Football Confederation – World Cup Qualification. Less than a decade later, Qatar were the champions of Asia, ranked 55th after a shock title run featuring wins over heavyweights UAE, South Korea, and Japan. In 10 Asian Cups before the 2019 edition, Qatar had managed a paltry 6 wins, garnering 27 points from 32 outings. In 2019, they won all 7 fixtures, scoring 19, and conceding once.

A British protectorate until 1971, Qatar was a relatively late-comer to international soccer, opening its football program with a 2-1 loss to fellow ex-protectorate Bahrain. Qatar would gain independence a year later, making The Maroon eligible for World Cup Qualification in 1974. Qatar withdrew in 74 but would debut 4 years later in the 78 tournament with a 2-0 win against… Bahrain; they lost their next 3 matches – including a 3-0 defeat to the Bahrainis – and finished last. They’d fall well short in 82; but managed to beat Bahrain a 2nd time in Bahrain’s only qualification match. It was the 81 U20 World Cup where Qatar made its first real mark reaching the final after wins against England and Brazil with a team developed by Qatar’s storied Aspire Academy. 8 years later that generation reached its zenith coming within a point of the 1990 World Cup. They came close again in 98 and picked up their first piece of silverware in the 92 Arabian Gulf Cup where they finished 2 points clear of 2nd place… Bahrain.

Amid a deepening pool of Asian teams, and a limited talent pool, Qatar returned to mediocrity in the 2000’s. With political incentives for Qatari soccer to improve, The Qatar Football Association took a more unconventional approach to team building. Aspire Academy started tracking young players across the world as Qatar’s government broke its own citizenship laws to naturalize the most talented kids they could find. Aspire Academy would end up tracking millions of players. For a country with a population that barely passed 1 million, this meant artificially multiplying the talent base several times over. Though not without controversy, this approach proved remarkably effective with Aspire Academy’s work laying the seeds for unprecedented highs.

This November we’ll see the culmination of one of football’s most ambitious projects. Qatar are good now. They’ll have a chance to show how good. Was 2019 a peak? Or was it the precursor for something greater?

The world is watching. For better or worse, Qatar is in its eye.

Expected Finish: 2nd

Why?

Hosts do well. All but one host nation in this near century-spanning tournament has successfully reached round two. Of the 7 hosts who had never advanced past round one, only one fell at the first hurdle. That casualty was South Africa – ranked 63(Elo) – who missed out, via tiebreaker, in a group with reigning finalists France, eventual semi-finalists Uruguay, and perennial progressors El Tri. According to Elo and FIFA, Qatar is significantly better than South Africa was. They also face, arguably, the easiest set of opponents in the tourney.

Qatar’s players have also played together, alot. Not only do all 26 call-ups play in the same league, but this roster is virtually identical to the one we saw in the 2019 Asian Cup, the 2021 Copa America, and the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Beyond that, all of these players developed together in the Aspire Football Academy meaning most of them have been learning how to play with each other for more than a decade. Simply put, It’s possible the players of The Maroon will have the best chemistry of any national team that has ever participated in a World Cup Finals.

Qatar demonstrated proof of concept with their performance in the 2019 Asian Cup. Winning is one thing, perfection is another. Qatar were the first team to win every game at the Asian Cup since 1974, where Iran won 4 games to clinch a 6 team tournament headlined by relative minnows Kuwait and China. Qatar won 7 out of 7 games to clinch a 16 team tournament featuring maybe the deepest pool of quality teams to ever grace the continent. In other words, the last time Qatar played in the Middle East, they put together, arguably, the most impressive continental performance in Asian history. For comparison, perceived favorites Senegal received much acclaim for an AFCON – African Cup of Nations – win where they played much weaker opponents and fared significantly worse.

Many-a pundit view The Maroon as minnows. I disagree.

Why not?

The 2019 Asian Cup was a while ago. More recent showings aren’t as promising. In the 2019 Copa America they finished last in a group with Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay. The latter two failed to qualify; Paraguay didn’t even come close. South America is tough, but Ecuador managed.

Their most recent set of competitive games came in the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup hosted – and won – by the USMNT(United States Men’s National team). At first glance, they did ok; reaching the semi-final and losing to the eventual champion – in unlucky fashion – at their opponent’s backyard. Context paints a different picture. Qatar was one of a handful of sides to send a full-strength team to North America. They beat Honduras and Grenada – two teams who fell well short of world cup qualification – convincingly, tied a Panamanian team depleted by injury, and were an offside-call away from blowing a 3-goal lead to non-qualifier El Salvador. In the semi-final they faced a team of American reserves, succumbing to an attack spearheaded by Matthew Hoppe; currently playing left-bench with championship side Middlesborough.

Qatar look good when their opponents sit-back and give Qatar space. They look less good when the opposition pushes their lines and presses Qatar’s playmakers. This was the story of their matches against El Salvador and the US where they were dominant in the first half and got overrun in the second. They’re particularly vulnerable in transition and their three group-mates all have an abundance of pace.

There’s also a deficit in player quality. Qatar ranks 32 of 32 in both of our talent measures; away from home, they’ve looked the part.

The good news is these games are at home. While there is certainly a case against The Maroon, I’m banking on history.

Key Players

2019 Asian footballer of the year, Club World Cup bronze medalist, and arguably the greatest player in the history of the Qatar Stars league, Akram Afif is Qatar’s best player(ever). A phenomenal playmaker, neat on the ball, and a threat to score from just about anywhere, Afif will need to perform for Qatar’s offense to click. Afif has appeared 9 times in La Liga for Sporting Gijon making him the only player in the pool with top league experience.

Almoez Ali is one of the few players, ever, to be the top scorer of two continental competitions; in two separate continents. He won the golden boot – and was named best player – at the 2019 Asian Cup with a record-breaking 9 tallies. 2 years later, at the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Almoez scored 4 times in 5 games to be top scorer again. Ali was also named to the IFFHS AFC Men’s Team of the Decade to go along with an undisputed case as Qatar’s lead talisman. With 42 goals in 85 appearances, the Al Duhail striker will need to produce for Qatar to advance. Ali’s also a decent bet for goal of the tournament.

Netherlands | Elo: 4 | FIFA: 8 |

History: Behold The Oranje. With three appearances in the final, and no appearances at the winner’s podium, the Dutch are uncontested as the World Cup’s greatest bridesmaid. They are one of six national teams to reach the final three separate times. They are one of seven national teams to reach five semi-finals; but they are not one of the eight teams to hoist the Jules Rimet. What they’ve done is actually harder than just winning it all, even if it’s less satisfying.

Recent heart-breaks have been particularly potent. In 2010, entering South Africa as a dark horse, The Flying Dutchmen – literally at times – huffed and fouled their way to a perfect finals run – including a come-back win against No.1 ranked Brazil – before succumbing in overtime to No.2 ranked Spain. 2014 started sweetly, with a flying dutchman putting La Roja to the sword. The dish turned sour in the semis in a shoot-out loss to the Argentines. 2018 ended before it began. Needing a top two finish in a qualification group with two eventual quarterfinalists, The Oranje could only manage third. Their female counterparts had an inspired run to the 2019 World Cup final where they… lost to an American juggernaut.

Before the Dutch were bridesmaids, they were minnows, combining for 2 appearances – and 0 points – for the first 40 years of the Wereldbeker. Then, upon a Cruyff-faced wave, the Dutch entered 74 as the favorite. They lost… in the final. They entered 78 without Cruyff and reached the final once more; then lost to Argentina. While The Oranje’s style of play – the quintessential example of positional football – left a legacy so strong that the 74 and 78 Dutch sides are still regarded as one of the greatest teams ever, winners they were not. I would be remiss not to mention that the Dutch managed a singular European triumph in 88, but that’s really not the same.

Once more the Dutchmen will swim against a tide, and once more they will dare to escape it. Will the soccer gods finally smile down on Johan’s children?

Expected Finish: 1st

Why?

They are the most talented team, ranking top 10 in both TMV and WCDCS. They have been the best team, ranking top 10 in Elo and FIFA. They are undefeated in 15, have won their last six group games in their competition, and have a stronger track record at this tournament than the other three teams combined.

Why wouldn’t you pick them?

Why not?

Qualification was not easy. A loss to Turkey along with ties against Norway, Scotland, and Montenegro put the Netherlands in a precarious position in their final qualification match. Needing to not lose, the Dutch comfortably beat Haaland-less Norway, thereby booking their ticket to Qatar. That might be less impressive than Ecuador booking qualification from South America with games to spare.

The Netherlands also can’t say they’re continental champions, having lost to the Czech Republic in the Round of 16 at the 2021 European Championship. Perhaps they’ll falter before the champions of Asia and Africa.

While the Dutch aren’t allergic to build-up, they’re often direct. Transition offense is typically less effective when opposing defenses leave less space behind. Both Senegal and Ecuador leave extra players back when they attack. This makes both unusually difficult to break down. Ecuador in particular has a knack for peeling off points from more talented teams.

The Dutch are clear favorites, but they are not invincible.

Key Players

Barcelona starlet Frenkie de Jong may be the Netherland’s most essential piece for successfully surviving this phase of the competition. Facing two sides that usually give little, the Netherlands will rely on de Jong being a reliable metronome in the middle of the pitch. Gifted with the ball, and a strong orchestrator under pressure, Netherlands may well rely on Frenkie’s progression and ball-security to successfully navigate the group stage.

Matthijs De Ligt is world class. An attacking midfielder in his youth, De Ligt is the center-back equivalent of a 5-tool player. He’s a great passer, is strong and fast. Is excellent positionally, and is a threat in the air. In 2018 De Ligt won the golden boy awarded to Europe’s most impressive young player. In 2022, the 23 year old already has a strong claim as The Oranje’s best player. If there is to be total triumph in Qatar, Matthijs will have to deliver.

Senegal | Elo: 43 | FIFA: 16 |

History: Enter the African Champion. In 2002, the Lions of Teranga conjured magic. As France fell, Senegal soared, becoming the second African team to reach the quarter-finals. In 2022, Senegal carries the hopes of a continent. The world still waits for an African semi-finalist. To many, Senegal is the continent’s best hope.

Senegal won independence from France in 1960. The Senegalese Football Federation(FSF) formed later that year. In 1963 Senegal joined the Confederation for African Football(CAF), before debuting at the African Cup of Nations in 1965. With a win, a draw, and a loss, Senegal finished 4th. In 1968, they repeated that trick to finish 5th. They entered World Cup Qualification in 1970; their debut came in a two-legged playoff against Morocco where a 1-goal win for each country turned a two-legged tie into a three-legged tie. Morocco won game three. In 1974 Senegal ran into Morocco again, and again, the lions fell.

Senegal wouldn’t progress past the first round of qualification until the format changed in 1994. After winning their group in round one, they were drawn with Zambia and… Morocco. Morocco finished first to qualify. Senegal finished last. In 1998 they went back to falling at the first hurdle, losing a two-legged playoff to Togo. They returned to the second round in 2002, via a narrow win against Benin, only to be grouped with CAF heavy weights Algeria, Egypt, and… Morocco. To qualify for the World Cup Finals, the Lions of Teranga would need to win their group. And so they did. With a record of 4 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss, Senegal finished with 15 points, scraping by their long-time tormentors on goal-difference. The rest is history.

Alas, 2002 was a flash. Senegal failed to qualify for the next three tournaments, only returning to the Coupe du Monde in 2018, on the crest of a golden generation headlined by Sadio Mane. In Russia, they would miss out by the slimmest of margins, becoming the first team to be eliminated from the group stage on yellow card accumulation. In 2019, the lions reached their first AFCON final, only to lose on penalties. In the 2021 AFCON, Senegal faced another finals shootout. This time they won; Sadio Mane scored the winning kick. Senegal won another shoot-out to qualify for Qatar, making consecutive world cups for the first time in their history. Sadio Mane, once again, scored the winning kick.

And so enters the African champion, on the wings of a generation more talented than any that came before, carrying the weight of a continent.

Will they rise? Or will they crumble?

Expected Finish: 3rd

Why?

Senegal have talent, experience, and a favorable group. What they don’t have, is results. A win against Poland in 2018 has largely buoyed their FIFA ranking, but when we turn to the more reactive measure of Elo, we see they’ve dropped to 43rd. Yes Senegal are the champions of Africa, but only two African champions have ever progressed from the group-stage.

If we look at how Senegal became the champions of Africa, the Lions of Teranga don’t look so good. In a group with Malawi(140th), Zimbabwe(130th), and Guinea(110th), Senegal’s only goal was a 97th minute penalty. For reference, let’s take a look at Canada(29), a team that finished first in qualification from a region where winning continentally actually translates abroad. When Canada faced comparably ranked Suriname(127th), they won by four. When Suriname faced lower ranked Bermuda(160th), they won by six. Bermuda’s ranking may undersell them. Nakhi Wells is probably a better player than anyone on Malawi or Zimbabwe.

Egypt(53rd) is the best team Senegal have faced in a meaningful match over the last two years. In three games against this colossus, Senegal won(1-0), tied(0-0), and lost(1-0). If this was a three-legged tie, it would have gone to penalties. Of course, there aren’t shoot-outs in the group stage. If Senegal can’t score, they will not win.

To make matters worse, Sadio Mane is injured. For a team that barely scores with one of the best attackers on the planet, missing Mane may prove difficult.

Even without Mane, Senegal are still, theoretically, good enough. But as many-a African side can attest, theory doesn’t get you out of the groups.

Why not?

Senegal have talent, experience, and a favorable group. The Lions of Teranga rank top 16 in both TMV and WCDCS. This is also effectively the same team that played in the last World Cup, the last two AFCON’s, and the last two World Cup qualifying cycles.

Even without Mane, Senegal has a number of players at the best clubs of Europe. They should be as ready for this stage as anyone. Mane also isn’t entirely ruled out for the tournament.

Senegal has the pieces to succeed. But the puzzle hasn’t quite come together.

Key Players

Formerly named the best defender in Italy, and a 4-time participant on the Serie A team of the year, Kalidou Koulibaly is the centerpiece for one of the world cup’s more resolute defenses. With a rare combination of strength, agility, and skill, the Chelsea center-back is obviously very good. What may not be so obvious is Koulibaly’s value in attack. Senegal’s offense is largely based on playing long passes to runners. A big reason why Senegal are so hard to score on is that the lions often avoid throwing up numbers when they attack. This means that most of Senegal’s ball-progression stems from accurate deep-lying passes. Senegal’s best deep-lying passer is… Kalidou Koulibaly. Koulibaly will need to perform for both Senegal’s defense and offense to click.

Sadio Mane is a world-class attacker. One of the key pieces for a historically great Liverpool side, Mane’s injury is a big blow. While the floor won’t necessarily fall out, Mane’s health will determine Senegal’s ceiling. Assuming it all comes together, the lions have enough to survive their group without Mane. Anything else is a big ask. If Senegal is to break through and become the first African representative in a World Cup semi-final, they’ll probably need Mane to make a quick return.

Ecuador | Elo: 44 | FIFA: 18 |

History: On May 30th, 1925, the Federación Deportiva Nacional del Ecuador, was founded. Shortly after, La Tricolor were granted an automatic invitation to the first World Cup. Ecuador declined. On June 2nd, 2002, La Tri got their first taste of World Cup football, more than 70 years later, in a 2-0 loss to Italy.

Drinking from the well seems to have made La Tri greedy. 2022 will mark their 4th successful qualification in 6 attempts. Considering they play the world’s most difficult qualifiers, it’s a remarkable accomplishment.

More remarkable is the fact they’ve won, at least once, at each finals they’ve participated in. In 2002, they won twice, progressing to the round of 16 with emphatic victories over Costa Rica and Poland. England ended their run in the knockouts, but the tournament was indisputably a success.

Ecuador’s journey to the finals was arduous. 62 marked La Tri’s maiden campaign. Put in a home and home playoff against Argentina, Ecuador were lost by a combined scoreline of 11-3 after a trashing in Guayaquil, and a massacre at Buenos Aires. 66 went significantly better. With two wins against Colombia, Ecuador finished level on points with Chile. A one-off playoff on neutral ground would decide qualification. Ecuador lost 2-1. They wouldn’t win another qualifier until 1982 picking up a paltry 4 points from 12 matches. 98 marked the first time they’d strung together 2 wins in a single campaign as they finished only 4 points off the last qualification spot. That qualification spot was occupied by… Chile. 94 was particularly pathetic. Coming off a best ever 4th place finish in the 93 Copa America, Ecuador won one of 8 qualifiers.

2002 went differently. Having won 11 times in their first 55 qualification matches, La Tri won 9 of 18 to finish 2nd and cruise to their first finals. Their path to Qatar was similar with Ecuador winning 7 of their first 14 to help book an early ticket to Doha.

With the 4th youngest team in the tournament, a cadre of promising prospects, and a general sense that La Tri-color are more than the sum of their parts, there is plenty to be excited about…

…but is there enough to win?

Expected Finish: 4th

Why?

Ecuador’s track record in qualification is impressive, particularly at home where they won 5 times while losing only once. What they’ve managed away from home is more concerning. In qualification they only managed 2 wins away from La Casa Blanca. Both came against teams that failed to reach the World Cup. They haven’t fared much better on neutral ground, picking up no wins in 5 matches at the most recent Copa America.

While Ecuador has historically been characterized as a team that plays fun, attacking soccer, their current iteration is slower and more defensive-minded. It worked well enough at home, but will it translate here against a slate of teams that specialize in transition?

While there are promising youngsters, La Tri has a deficit in actualized talent, ranking among the bottom half of participants TMV and WCDCS. Have favorable conditions at home papered over the cracks? Ecuador may just not be that good; and unlike Qatar, they can’t count on experience, familiarity, or the comforts of home carrying them through.

Facing a host, and two teams with considerably better players, La Tricolor might be out of their depth.

Why not?

Ecuador ranks 18th in Elo, reflecting that they have had, by a margin, the second best form in the group. They didn’t play the best possible lineups in the Copa America and doing badly away is a world-wide phenomenon.

They are strong on set-pieces, have gotten several competitive results against some of the best teams in the world, and have a cadre of promising youth ready to outlast older opposition in what will be one of the hottest world cups on record.

South American teams usually advance, Irregardless of how they qualify. Ecuador have held their own against the best teams in the most difficult conditions.

This wouldn’t be the first time someone dismissed Ecuador as a team that can only win at home. They were wrong then. Maybe I’m wrong now.

Group A is one of those rare World Cup groups where you can make a strong case for all four teams advancing. I don’t think they will, but I’d love to see Ecuador prove me wrong.

Key Players

The star man on a Brighton side that has wildly overperformed expectations, Moises Caicedo is Ecuador’s best player. A do-it-all midfielder who can create, progress, and defend at a high level, Ecuador will need Moises at his best to advance.

Piero Hincapie is one of the better defenders in the Bundesliga. Strong on the ball, and excellent positionally, Hincapie is the anchor of La Tri’s defense. On a team that can struggle for goals, Hincapie will be vital for keeping the other team off the score-sheet.

Predicted Group Standings

1	Netherlands
2	Qatar
3	Senegal
4	Ecuador

For more info on the methodology click here.

Group Previews:

USMNT

The USMNT’s World Cup Legacy: Highs, Lows, and Defining Moments

Published

2 days ago

June 3, 2026

Thomas Deschaine

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on Xhttps://x.com/uskeeper/ and us_keeper on Instagram)

The USMNT’s World Cup story stretches back nearly a century to the inaugural tournament in 1930. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the United States’ 12th appearance on soccer’s biggest stage.

Over that time, the Americans have played 37 matches, earning 9 wins, 8 draws, and 20 losses, while scoring 40 goals and conceding 66. The U.S. has advanced to the knockout stage in seven of those tournaments.

Five different USMNT goalkeepers have recorded clean sheets at the World Cup, Matt Turner and Frank Borghi with two each, and Tim Howard, Brad Friedel, and Jimmy Douglas with one apiece.

The USMNT’s top World Cup scorers, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Brian McBride, and Bert Patenaude, all netted multiple goals in a single tournament, cementing their places in U.S. soccer history.

1930 – Uruguay

The inaugural World Cup in Uruguay saw the USMNT surprise the world by reaching the semifinals before falling 6–1 to Argentina. The U.S. dominated the group stage, defeating Belgium and Paraguay 3–0, with Bert Patenaude making history as the first player ever to record a hat trick at a World Cup. The Americans ultimately finished third, still their best result on the world stage to this day.

1934 – Italy

The USMNT’s 1934 World Cup appearance would be a brief one. Just days before the tournament began, the Americans secured qualification by defeating rivals Mexico 4–2 in Rome. Drawn straight into a knockout format, the U.S. faced host nation Italy in their opening match, falling 7–1. Aldo Donelli scored the team’s only goal, following up his remarkable four-goal performance from the qualifier.

1950 – Brazil

The USMNT pulled off arguably the greatest upset in World Cup history, and certainly their biggest win to date, by defeating England 1–0, thanks to Joe Gaetjens’ famous goal. Despite that historic triumph, the Americans fell 3–1 to Spain in their opener and 5–2 to Chile in their final group match, ending their tournament at the group stage.

1990 – Italy

After a forty-year absence, the USMNT returned to the World Cup with a young, hungry, and largely untested squad. Despite a rough start, suffering a 5–1 loss to Czechoslovakia, the Americans rebounded with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over host and eventual third-place finisher Italy before narrowly falling 2–1 to Austria. The invaluable experience gained at this tournament would help lay the foundation for the team’s performance at the 1994 World Cup.

1994 – United States

After several attempts to host a World Cup, the United States was finally awarded the 1994 tournament. The USMNT faced a very tough group but showed determination in all three matches. They opened with a 1–1 draw against Switzerland, with Eric Wynalda scoring a brilliant set-piece goal, still considered one of the best in World Cup history. In their second match, the Americans secured a 2–1 victory over a strong Colombian side, marking their first World Cup win since 1950. A narrow 1–0 loss to Romania in the final group match didn’t stop the U.S. from advancing to the Round of 16, where they were eliminated 1-0 by eventual champions Brazil. The 1994 World Cup had a lasting impact, helping to inspire and shape soccer culture in the United States.

1998 – France

It was an up-and-down cycle for the USMNT, but their fourth-place finish at the 1995 Copa América had fans optimistic about the team’s potential heading into 1998. However, the shocking omission of longtime captain John Harkes, who had worn the armband 30 times, raised serious questions. Meanwhile, trailblazers from earlier cycles struggled to make an impact: Alexi Lalas didn’t play a single minute, Marcelo Balboa saw just eight minutes of action, and Eric Wynalda featured in only two matches for a total of 51 minutes. The Americans went on to lose all three group-stage games, finishing last among the 32 teams.

2002 – Korea / Japan

After a hard-fought qualifying campaign, the USMNT made a memorable run at the 2002 World Cup, advancing to the quarterfinals after a historic 2–0 win over regional rivals Mexico. The Americans put in a strong performance against Germany but were denied a potential equalizer when a clear handball went uncalled, ending their dream run with a narrow defeat. Landon Donovan’s breakout performance earned him the tournament’s Best Young Player award.

2006 – Germany

The USMNT entered the 2006 World Cup brimming with confidence, dreaming of another deep run. But drawn into a brutal Group of Death, those hopes quickly unraveled. A 3–0 loss to the Czech Republic stunned the team, though a fierce 1–1 draw with Italy briefly reignited belief. Then came heartbreak, a controversial penalty on Oguchi Onyewu doomed the US to a 2–1 defeat to Ghana and a shocking early exit.

2010 – South Africa

Riding the momentum of their 2009 Confederations Cup runner-up finish, the USMNT entered the 2010 World Cup with real belief and growing hype. Every match in South Africa was a test of grit and heart. The opener against England ended 1–1, with Clint Dempsey’s late first-half strike shocking the favorites. In their second match, the Americans stormed back from two goals down to draw 2–2, keeping their hopes alive. Then came one of the most iconic moments in U.S. soccer history, Landon Donovan’s stoppage-time winner against Algeria, sealing a dramatic 1–0 victory and a place in the knockout stage. But the dream ended in heartbreak, as Ghana once again eliminated the U.S. in extra time, 2–1.

2014 – Brazil

The mood heading into the 2014 World Cup was cautious after Jurgen Klinsmann’s shocking decision to leave Landon Donovan, the team’s all-time leader in goals and assists, off the roster. The USMNT opened against familiar nemesis Ghana, who had eliminated them in the previous two tournaments. This time, redemption arrived when substitute John Brooks headed home a late winner to seal a thrilling 2–1 victory. In their second match against powerhouse Portugal, the Americans came within seconds of back-to-back wins before a last-gasp equalizer from Silvestre Varela snatched away the dream. A 1–0 loss to Germany in the final group game proved enough to advance on goal difference. In the Round of 16, the U.S. faced Belgium’s golden generation, pushing the match into extra time behind Tim Howard’s record-breaking 16 saves, but ultimately fell 2–1 in a valiant defeat that earned global respect.

2018 – Russia

An aging and uninspired USMNT failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, marking one of the darkest moments in American soccer history. Bruce Arena later suggested that, had the U.S. made it, the roster would have looked much younger and more dynamic. Still, it’s hard to imagine that group advancing past the group stage, unless teenage sensation Christian Pulisic had delivered a breakout performance on par with Landon Donovan’s heroics in 2002.

2022 – Qatar

A new generation of USMNT players brought back the energy and passion missing in recent cycles. After a turbulent qualifying journey, the Americans opened the World Cup with a 1–1 draw against Wales, Tim Weah’s first-half goal canceled out by Gareth Bale’s late penalty. A gritty 0–0 result against England kept hopes alive before Christian Pulisic’s heroic goal against Iran sent them to the knockouts. Out of gas in the Round of 16, the U.S. fell 3–1 to a superior Netherlands side.

2026 – United States / Mexico / Canada

One thing is certain; the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be unlike anything the world has ever seen. It’s destined to break records, captivate audiences, and redefine what soccer means in America. But the story still to be written is that of the USMNT. Can they rise to the moment, ignite a nation, and make a historic run on home soil, proving once and for all that soccer in the United States has arrived and is here to stay?

USMNT

Best to Wear the Band

Published

6 days ago

May 30, 2026

Thomas Deschaine

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)

Who is the greatest captain in the history of the U.S. Men’s National Team? With more than 100 different players having worn the armband over the years, which player truly stood out as the best leader on the field?

In this article, I’ll break down the statistics behind the players who have captained the USMNT the most, as well as those who have worn the armband at the FIFA World Cup. The information was gathered through a combination of U.S. Soccer media guides, match footage, newspaper archives, and various online resources that were cross-checked and confirmed through multiple sources.

Over the last several cycles, the “Captain America” label has often been attached to the face of the USMNT. I believe that trend really began around the 2014 World Cup when Clint Dempsey captained the United States in Brazil.

Today, that title is commonly associated with Christian Pulisic, who became the youngest player ever to captain the USMNT and has worn the armband more than any other player over the last two cycles. However, it has become increasingly clear that Pulisic prefers to lead through his performances on the field rather than serve as the outspoken public voice of the national team.

In some ways, I wish Landon Donovan had taken a similar approach at times instead of trying to carry the burden of being the vocal leader everyone expected him to be. As I often tell my daughter, there are many different types of leaders in sports, and not all of them need to wear the captain’s armband.

There are many fans who believe the captaincy itself doesn’t carry much importance, but I disagree. Leadership matters, and teams need players who can provide direction, accountability, and composure both on and off the pitch. For me, Tyler Adams and Chris Richards are two players who stand out as natural leaders for the present and the future of the USMNT. At the same time, Tim Ream has clearly filled that leadership role throughout the last two cycles.

Below is my list of the top five USMNT captains of all time, along with a breakdown of every player who has captained the national team at least 19 times, a group filled with some of the biggest names and legends in U.S. Soccer history.

Honorable Mention

Tyler Adams, who captained the USMNT at the 2022 World Cup, could become just the second player in team history to wear the armband at back-to-back World Cups. However, his overall number of matches as captain is still relatively low, making it difficult for him to crack the top five on this list at this point in his career.

Mike Windischmann defender, captained the USMNT during one of the most difficult and pressure-filled periods of the program’s modern era, helping lead the team as it fought to qualify for its first World Cup in 40 years, a feat the United States ultimately achieved in remarkable fashion.

#5 – Marcelo Balboa, Thomas Dooley and John Harkes

During the 1994 and 1998 World Cup cycles, these three USMNT trailblazers combined to captain more than 70 matches for the national team. Each was an outstanding leader on the field who consistently supported and elevated their teammates. Dooley was the captain of the 1998 World Cup team.

While choosing three players for the fifth spot may seem like a cop-out, all of them led this group in exactly the way the team needed during that era. Personally, I also prefer my captain to play in defense or as a holding midfielder, as those positions put them in the best spot to organize the team and quickly communicate with referees when attacking players are fouled higher up the field.

#4 – Tony Meola

I generally don’t prefer a goalkeeper to serve as captain, but Tony Meola, who became one of the youngest regular captains in USMNT history following the 1990 World Cup, really stood out to me as both a young soccer fan and aspiring goalkeeper.

His leadership throughout the 1994 World Cup cycle was especially impressive, as he captained the USMNT in nearly 60 matches and established himself as one of the defining leaders of that era.

#3 – Michael Bradley

Michael Bradley’s experience rising through the USMNT system while learning from several great leaders translated well when he became captain in 2015 after Clint Dempsey was stripped of the armband following off-field issues.

Bradley was expected to captain the USMNT at the 2018 World Cup had the team qualified, but unfortunately, he never got the opportunity to lead the United States on soccer’s biggest stage as captain.

#2 – Claudio Reyna

The only player in USMNT history to captain the team at two different World Cups, in 2002 and 2006, Claudio Reyna developed into the type of on- and off-field leader that U.S. Soccer has always been proud to represent.

Being named to four World Cup rosters, playing in three tournaments, and captaining the team in two of them places Reyna in a class of his own in USMNT history.

#1 – Carlos Bocanegra

Without question, my number one choice as the greatest captain in USMNT history is Carlos Bocanegra. Beyond my personal fandom, Bocanegra was an incredible talent and leader for the national team during both the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2010 World Cup, guiding what I believe was one of the best USMNT squads of all time.

Top 15 USMNT Captains

64 Carlos Bocanegra

59 Tony Meola

48 Michael Bradley

46 Claudio Reyna

40 Mike Windischmann

30 John Harkes

29 Christian Pulisic

27 Tim Ream

25 Kasey Keller

23 Thomas Dooley

20 Clint Dempsey

19 Landon Donovan

19 Marcelo Balboa

14 Peter Vermes

13 Tyler Adams

13 Walter Bahr

USMNT Captains at World Cups

7 Claudio Reyna (2002 & 2006)

4 Carlos Bocanegra (2010)

4 Clint Dempsey (2014)

4 Tony Meola (1994)

4 Tyler Adams (2022)

3 Mike Windischmann (1990)

3 Thomas Dooley (1998)

3 Thomas Florie (1930)

2 Harry Keough (1950)

1 Earnie Stewart (2002)

1 Edward McIlvenny (1950)

1 Francis ‘Hun’ Ryan (1934)

USMNT

USMNT Roster Snubs: Breaking Down the Toughest World Cup Cuts

Published

6 days ago

May 30, 2026

Thomas Deschaine

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)

Building a roster to compete at a FIFA World Cup isn’t easy. Teams need the proper depth at all positions along with the right balance of chemistry to ensure the needed continuity and balance to ensure a good performance at a World Cup.

Pochettino will be making his decisions over the coming months headed into the camp headed into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Here’s a look back at each World Cup snubs for the USMNT since 1990 and how and why the players weren’t selected. When looking at the snubbed players ask yourself who you would have removed from the active roster and replaced them with.

1990 – Italy

After a 50-year absence from the World Cup, it was clear that the USMNT roster for the 1990 tournament was focused on youth and laying the groundwork for the 1994 World Cup, which the USA would host. Other notable players who didn’t make the cut included Troy Dayak, Ted Eck, John Kerr, and Frank Klopas.

Ricky Davis (32) – The former USMNT captain and legend wasn’t fit enough to make the roster, even in a leadership role. Despite his experience, Davis was dealing with injuries and ultimately wasn’t selected as the team prioritized a youth movement at the time.

Arnie Mausser (36) – Similar to Davis, Mausser had been the USMNT’s primary goalkeeper for three cycles, but age and injuries ultimately kept him from earning the third goalkeeper spot, as Bob Gansler opted to go with younger options in the pool.

Hugo Pérez (26) – Pérez was coming off an injury, and manager Bob Gansler, along with his staff, felt he wasn’t fully fit. They opted for a younger, more defensive-minded squad built around work rate and fitness. Additionally, reports of tension between Pérez and the coaching staff may have contributed to his exclusion from the roster.

1994 – United States

This cycle may have featured the largest number of snubs from one cycle to the next — or at least it felt that way at the time. The experience of the eight USMNT players selected was considerable, but notable veterans from the 1990 squad missed out. Players like Desmond Armstrong, Brian Bliss, Chris Henderson, and Peter Vermes made the provisional roster but ultimately didn’t secure a spot on the 1994 team. Additionally, 1990 World Cup veterans Kasey Keller and John Doyle were left off the final professional roster.

Jeff Agoos (26) –Agoos was among the final players cut from the 1994 USMNT provisional roster. At the time, the team already boasted strong defensive depth with Marcelo Balboa, Alexi Lalas, Fernando Clavijo, Cle Kooiman, and Mike Burns. Rumor also had it that Bora Milutinović and Agoos weren’t fully aligned on tactics and expected playing time, which likely influenced the decision.

Kasey Keller (24) – Keller, who had been chosen as a backup for the 1990 World Cup, was largely out of the picture for the 1994 USMNT cycle. Bora reportedly didn’t appreciate Keller’s attitude, viewing him as overly confident, and the USSF was frustrated when Keller refused to wear Adidas gloves, the team’s official sponsor at the time.

Dominic Kinnear (26) – Kinnear was among the final three players cut from the USMNT roster in late May. Many believed Bora leaned heavily on players who fit his tactical system and offered greater versatility, filling the attacking and wide roles with individuals he trusted more within that setup.

1998 – France

David Regis, who became eligible to play for the USMNT just weeks before the World Cup, impacted the selection of defenders called into the squad. Several younger players, including John O’Brien and Tony Sanneh, would later feature in future World Cups. Meanwhile, experienced veterans like Chris Henderson and Mike Sorber, both of whom had been part of previous USMNT World Cup squads, were included on the provisional roster but ultimately did not make the final cut.

John Harkes (31) – At the time, this was considered the biggest snub in USMNT history, the omission of a 30-time captain. Steve Sampson explained that Harkes was not meeting the leadership standards expected of a veteran, citing concerns about his attitude, professionalism, and influence in the locker room. Six years later, the true reason behind Harkes’ ‘snub’ would come to light.

Gregg Berhalter (24) – Berhalter, likely affected by David Regis’s inclusion on the USMNT roster, was among the final players cut from the World Cup squad. He would go on to be called up for the next two World Cups

Jovan Kirovski (22) – Kirovski’s youth and limited international experience likely played a role in his omission from the USMNT squad, with more seasoned players like Brian McBride, Eric Wynalda, and Joe-Max Moore in stronger form at the time of the World Cup.

2002 – Korea / Japan

I’d argue there weren’t any truly glaring snubs for the USMNT at this World Cup. Instead, injuries opened the door for a few players on the provisional roster to earn spots with one of the stronger U.S. teams. Notable examples include Brian Maisonneuve, a member of the 1998 World Cup squad, and Jovan Kirovski, who had been on the provisional roster in 1998.

Chris Armas (29) – Armas wasn’t a snub; however, he suffered a knee injury in the first of three World Cup tune-up friendlies against Uruguay. As a result, Pablo Mastroeni stepped in and ultimately received the minutes Armas would have played at the World Cup.

Greg Vanney (27) – Another injury in the USMNT’s second of three tune-up matches against Jamaica opened the door for Steve Cherundolo, who hadn’t been called into those friendlies, to claim the final roster spot for the 2002 World Cup.

Ante Razov (28) – Ante Razov began the 2002 MLS season in red-hot form, scoring eight goals before the World Cup kicked off, but he was competing against a deep and established striker pool that included Clint Mathis, Brian McBride, and Joe-Max Moore.

2006 – Germany

Another World Cup brought its share of misfortune for the 2006 USMNT, as two selected players, Frankie Hejduk and Cory Gibbs, were sidelined with knee injuries, leading to Chris Albright and Gregg Berhalter taking their places. That year, the New England Revolution were performing at an exceptionally high level, with four of their players in consideration for the squad: goalkeeper Matt Reis, midfielders Pat Noonan and Steve Ralston, and striker Taylor Twellman.

Freddy Adu (16) – The media frenzy surrounding Freddy Adu, along with the pressure to fast-track him onto the international stage, had many pundits and fans calling for his inclusion on the 2006 World Cup roster.

Taylor Twellman (26) – Twellman, the 2005 MLS MVP, came into the 2006 season in sensational form, even scoring a hat trick in an early-year friendly, yet he was ultimately left off Bruce Arena’s World Cup squad.

Jonathan Spector (20) & Jay DeMerit (26) – Defenders Jonathan Spector and Jay DeMerit, despite playing regularly in the Premier League at the time, were left off the provisional 2006 World Cup roster, but both would go on to feature in the tournament four years later.

2010 – South Africa

Calling Charlie Davies a snub is difficult, as he was less than a year removed from a serious car accident and had only just returned to training, likely not yet fit enough for the 2010 World Cup. Another injury note was Frankie Hejduk, who once again missed a World Cup due to injury, probably marking his last realistic chance to appear on the tournament stage. Additionally, an injured Jermaine Jones, not yet eligible to play for the USMNT at the time, was another player many believe would have been included in the roster had he been healthy.

Alejandro Bedoya (23) – Bedoya earned his first USMNT cap in 2010 and only appeared in a handful of matches leading up to the World Cup. In the years prior, he had been playing in Sweden’s top division, gaining professional experience but still relatively new to the senior national team stage. He also faced stiff competition in midfield, which made breaking into the final 23-man roster difficult. Bedoya would later become a key figure in the 2014 cycle, starting at the 2014 World Cup.

Sacha Kljestan (24) – Sacha Kljestan contributed during qualifiers and friendlies and was named to the preliminary 2010 World Cup squad, but he was ultimately left off the final 23‑man roster. Although he never made a USMNT World Cup squad, Kljestan remained an important contributor to the national team through the 2018 cycle.

Brian Ching (32) & Eddie Johnson (26) – These two striker omissions are real head-scratchers from a fan’s perspective. Especially after the Davies injury, you could argue that one, or even both, deserved a spot over Edson Buddle, Robbie Findley, and Herculez Gomez, all of whom had been in strong form in the months leading up to the roster selection.

2014 – Brazil

Anyone who has followed the USMNT over the past several cycles know there was a clear-cut snub for the 2014 World Cup, arguably the biggest in U.S. history and the one that affected me most as a fan. Additionally, Clarence Goodson, Benny Feilhaber and Maurice Edu, both members of the 2010 World Cup squad, were also omitted.

Landon Donovan (32) – The most high-profile omission in U.S. Soccer history, Donovan, the all-time leading scorer and veteran of three previous World Cups, was past his prime, yet he still could have contributed at a high level for the USMNT, even in a limited role or as a spot starter if needed.

Eddie Johnson (30) – Considered a snub from the 2010 USMNT World Cup squad, Eddie Johnson ranked in the top 20 for minutes played during the 2014 cycle and was fifth in goals scored for the national team and clearly back-to-back World Cup roster snubs for Johnson.

Tim Ream (26) – Tim Ream, Bolton Wanderers’ Player of the Year for the 2013–14 season (an honor he would also earn the following year), was left off the preliminary roster and seemingly out of Jürgen Klinsmann’s radar during the 2014 cycle.

2018 – Russia

There were no true snubs for the USMNT at this World Cup, since the team failed to qualify. Still, one could argue that veterans such as Michael Bradley, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard might have anchored an otherwise younger squad with valuable experience. Bruce Arena suggested that if the USMNT had qualified, he likely would have overhauled the roster, bringing in youth and emerging midfield talents like Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie to complement star Christian Pulisic.

2022 – Qatar

For the first time since 1998, World Cup rosters were expanded, allowing the USMNT to name a 26-man squad for the 2022 tournament. Some of the selections made by Gregg Berhalter and his staff were baffling, most notably the decision to bring four right backs to the World Cup.

John Brooks (29) – John Brooks, a veteran center back and the only player in the USMNT pool with prior World Cup experience, was left off the squad. With Miles Robinson sidelined by a knee injury, Brooks’ experience could have been valuable compared to options like Cameron Carter-Vickers, Aaron Long, or Walker Zimmerman. There was also a belief that Brooks’ skill set did not align with Gregg Berhalter’s tactical approach, contributing to the decision to exclude him.

Ricardo Pepi (19) – Despite strong club form, particularly after his loan to FC Groningen in the Eredivisie, Pepi was omitted from the 26-man roster. The USMNT opted for other striking options like Josh Sargent, Haji Wright, and Jesús Ferreira instead.

Zack Steffen (27) – Zack Steffen fell out of favor with Gregg Berhalter after splitting time as the starting goalkeeper with Matt Turner. There were growing concerns about Steffen’s movement and mobility, reportedly impacted by a lingering knee injury and ongoing back issues.

2026 – United States / Canada / Mexico

With the 2026 World Cup roster set at 26 players, a few notable snubs feel inevitable. That said, I believe Mauricio Pochettino already had the core of his USMNT squad in mind coming out of the March window. From here, much of the focus is likely on player health heading into the May 26 selection show on FOX, where the roster is expected to be revealed between 3–4 PM.

Defensively, it feels like Auston Trusty and Joe Scally could be battling for the same roster spot unless Pochettino decides to leave home another center back or Max Arfsten, which seems unlikely.

The attacking midfield and winger positions are just as competitive. Diego Luna, Gio Reyna, and Alejandro Zendejas may be fighting for two final spots, though there’s always the possibility of a surprise inclusion. A young player like Zavier Gozo could still force his way into the conversation.

Midfield may be the toughest battle of all. Yunus Musah, Gianluca Busio, Jack McGlynn, and potentially the most debated omission if left out, Aidan Morris, are all competing for limited places. With Johnny Cardoso officially out of the World Cup, Morris now feels close to a lock. Still, all of them are battling Pochettino favorites Sebastian Berhalter and Cristian Roldán for what could be the final roster spots.