Mauricio Pochettino’s USA side continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they host four-time world champions Germany in an international friendly at Soldier Field in Chicago on Saturday night. The encounter marks the first meeting between the two nations since Germany’s 3-1 comeback victory in Connecticut in October 2023.
Excitement continues to build around the United States ahead of the World Cup, which they will co-host alongside Canada and Mexico.
Through their official X account, the US national team recently shared images of players travelling to Chicago aboard an American Airlines flight with the caption “COMIN’ TO YA, CHICAGO!”, as fans expressed anticipation for one of the team’s biggest pre-tournament tests.
Pochettino’s side enter the fixture after hosting Senegal and edging the team 3-2 in Charlotte last weekend, bouncing back from earlier defeats to Belgium and Portugal. The United States have won five of their last nine friendlies and continue searching for consistency ahead of Group D clashes against Paraguay, Australia and Turkey at the World Cup.
Christian Pulisic remains the team’s key attacking figure after scoring against Senegal, while Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Giovanni Reyna is also expected to feature prominently.
Germany, meanwhile, arrive in outstanding form under Julian Nagelsmann. Die Mannschaft have won eight consecutive international matches, scoring 27 goals during that run, and most recently hosting Finland and thrashing them 4-0.
After disappointing group-stage exits at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, Germany appear revitalised under Nagelsmann and head into the tournament among the favourites. The Germans comfortably topped their qualifying group before extending their momentum with victories over Switzerland, Ghana and Finland in recent friendlies.
Kai Havertz could return after joining training earlier this week following Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League final defeat, while Florian Wirtz is expected to play a major creative role if Jamal Musiala’s minutes are managed carefully.
Team News
USA defender Chris Richards remains doubtful with an ankle issue, while Christian Pulisic is expected to lead the attack once again. Sergino Dest and Antonee Robinson could operate as wing-backs.
Germany may rest Deniz Undav after his recent injury scare against Finland. Manuel Neuer remains sidelined, while Kai Havertz has returned to training and could feature.
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 arrive with greater momentum, tactical balance and attacking confidence, but the USA will be motivated by home support and the opportunity to measure themselves against elite opposition before the World Cup. Expect an entertaining contest with chances at both ends.
