Donald Trump expresses support for USMNT ahead of World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 11:28 PM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Donald Trump expresses support for USMNT ahead of World Cup opener
Summary

The United States Men's National Team is preparing for its 2026 World Cup opener against Paraguay, scheduled for Friday night. President Donald Trump, though not attending the match, shared a supportive message with the team during a phone call, expressing confidence in their potential to win the tournament. Trump's absence as a head of state at a World Cup opener is described as unusual, contrasting with past presidents attending similar events. Team captain Tim Ream and head coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed their appreciation for Trump's encouragement and commitment to make the country proud. The match will kick off at 9 p.m.

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By the Numbers
  • USMNT opens World Cup against Paraguay on Friday night at 9 p.m.
  • Trump offered his support through a phone call with the team.
  • Pochettino acknowledged the president's message and pledged to make the country proud.
  • Trump attended the NBA Finals recently but will miss the World Cup match.
Latest Updates
  • 11:28 PMYahoo Sports‘Good chance of going all the way’: Donald Trump sends a message to Team USA before World Cup
What they're saying
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The United States Men’s National Team is set to open up its 2026 World Cup run with a Group D showdown against Paraguay on Friday night. While President Donald Trump won’t be in attendance for the game, he did have a message for the team. In a phone call with the USMNT this week, Trump…

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