Why Outsiders Believe the…

ATLANTA — There’s immense excitement surrounding the United States men’s national soccer team. Their recent matches were star-studded events, with celebrities like Ed Norton, Brad Pitt, and Will Ferrell spotted in the crowd. The spotlight on the USMNT continuously intensifies with each game.

In the expanded 48-team World Cup, the U.S. was expected to advance from its group, which includes Paraguay, Australia, and Türkiye, though expectations for winning it all may be more restrained.

As the tournament progresses towards the knockout stages, the U.S. has historically struggled to advance beyond the quarterfinals, last achieved in 2002 against Germany. With a round-of-32 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, anticipation builds: what can we expect?

To gain some insights on the U.S. team’s current stature and potential, ESPN consulted several experts, including Phil Neville (former England international and former manager of Inter Miami), Nick Cushing (ex-New York City FC manager and current manager of NWSL team Denver Summit), alongside ESPN pundits including Nedum Onuoha, Don Hutchison, Hugo Sanchez, Shaka Hislop, Stewart Robson, Jared Borgetti, Ricardo “Tuca” Ferretti, and Jan Åge Fjørtoft.

What has impressed you about the USMNT in the World Cup so far?

Neville: A critical aspect of changing external perceptions is performing well on big stages. The U.S. has demonstrated tactical excellence and an enjoyable style of play, positioning themselves among the top contenders.

Cushing: This is the best iteration of the USMNT I’ve witnessed. Their offensive intensity was clear in the first match, showcasing an eagerness to play attacking football. The group is confident, with standout players like Matt Freese and Weston McKennie exemplifying their growth.

Onuoha: Their technical skill combined with speed and tenacity has been eye-opening, particularly in their midfield trio, which includes Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams, and McKennie. Their synergy has surprised me, even having seen them play individually.

Hutchison: I’m impressed with the caliber of players available, playing across major leagues like Ligue 1, the Premier League, and La Liga. If they maintain this energy and quality, they could go far.

Sanchez: I’m struck by their competitive edge in this tournament, significantly more than in previous friendlies. Pochettino has instilled tactical discipline and aggressiveness.

Hislop: Their best performance was definitely against Paraguay. They played with discipline and professionalism throughout the tournament.

Robson: There’s a notable camaraderie within the team displaying intensity and quality right from the start of matches. Players like Sergiño Dest and Alex Freeman have been exceptional on the field.

Has the USMNT exceeded your expectations?

Neville: They have surpassed my expectations, especially considering their warm-up matches which didn’t showcase this level of quality.

Cushing: Their proficiency in set pieces has impressed me greatly. Pochettino’s focus on this area can be a decisive factor in tightly contested matches.

Onuoha: Their level of performance varies based on their opponents. Though they have strong individual talent, the true test will come against formidable teams.

Hutchison: While I anticipated their potential, I don’t think they’ve exceeded expectations yet. Their smart management fosters team harmony.

Hislop: They have surpassed all my expectations; they appear to be the most balanced team I’ve seen from the U.S.

Robson: Initially, it seemed building up to the World Cup was challenging, but he has prepared the team well for the tournament.

Fjørtoft: Pochettino knows how to protect his team, and he does it well.

What does the future hold for the U.S. at this World Cup?

Neville: The American support is remarkable, suggesting they could reach the quarterfinals or even the semifinals, which would be transformative for soccer in America.

Onuoha: The true challenge will arise in the knockout stages, where they’ll face stronger teams, testing their limits.

Sanchez: Given their strong showing, making it to the quarterfinals appears feasible.

Hislop: I believe they should reach the quarterfinals, and they have the capability to compete with any team.

Robson: Historically, host teams have outperformed expectations, so I see potential for the U.S. reaching the quarterfinals.

Borgetti: They have the potential to reach the quarterfinals given their confidence and home advantage.

Ferretti: I believe they will win their next match, but I expect elimination in the round of 16.

Fjørtoft: I foresee them advancing at least one more round.