Is the USMNT Prepared for…

CHICAGO — The United States men’s national team did not achieve the desired outcome in their pre-World Cup preparation, suffering a 2-1 defeat against Germany on Saturday in Chicago. Despite the result, the Americans managed to control much of the match’s pace for a significant part of the 90 minutes.

As has often been the case in recent encounters, the difference lay in finishing—while the U.S. created opportunities, they failed to capitalize, unlike their opponents.

Following an early setback due to a free header and goal from Kai Havertz, the U.S. found its footing around the 10-minute mark, maintaining control for the rest of the first half. A stunning strike from Antonee Robinson equalized in the 37th minute, and the Americans continued to generate dangerous chances, earning multiple corners.

However, in the 57th minute, as several key players were about to be substituted, a lengthy passing sequence saw Havertz set up a surprisingly open Leroy Sané at the edge of the box, allowing Germany to regain the lead, which they held onto. Late-game substitutions for both teams created additional chances, with Giovanni Reyna, Joe Scally, and Brenden Aaronson forcing notable saves from German keeper Oliver Baumann.

“I thought it was an evenly matched game,” commented U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino after the match. “If you look at the stats, some were in our favor. I’m really pleased with the players’ commitment and how they responded after going down early.”

The U.S. has now faced four consecutive top 15 FIFA-ranked teams, winning one and losing three. On the stats front, the U.S. created solid opportunities, with a total expected goals (xG) of 5.6, compared to their opponents’ 6.2. However, the issue of finishing loomed large, as opponents scored 11 goals to the USMNT’s six, underscoring a disparity in converting chances and moments of defensive lapses that have proved costly.

When results and advanced analytics don’t align, interpretations can vary significantly. However, the U.S. displayed both promising elements and frustrating shortcomings ahead of their World Cup opener against Paraguay on Friday.

Robinson Shines Brightly

Throughout the first half, Germany aimed to launch attacks primarily through Sané on the right wing. However, Robinson effectively neutralized him, standing out even before his remarkable equalizer. By the end of the 63rd minute, Robinson led the U.S. with 12 defensive interventions, six ball recoveries, and three chances created (tied for most with Malik Tillman), all while scoring the team’s only goal.

Antonee Robinson UNLEASHES 😱 pic.twitter.com/nGjr1voa0q

— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 6, 2026

“He was phenomenal,” remarked midfielder Tyler Adams post-match. “After he scored, I joked with him, ‘Can you save that for next weekend?'” It was Robinson’s second national team goal from over 20 meters and his third volleyed goal.

Robinson appeared to be cramping towards the end of his playing time, but no long-term issues are expected. “He’ll be fine,” Adams assured. “I told him, ‘You’ve been in England too long. You’re in the MLS heat now.'”

Continued Defensive Struggles

For the fourth consecutive game, U.S. opponents outperformed their expected goals, primarily due to ongoing defensive deficiencies, particularly with center back Chris Richards absent. On Germany’s opening goal, Adams conceded an unnecessary foul that granted Joshua Kimmich a prime free-kick opportunity, while Miles Robinson lost track of Havertz, Germany’s top threat on set pieces, allowing him a clear header.

The second goal resulted from a beautiful sequence of passing, with the U.S. defenders being a step slow for the first time in nearly an hour, leading to a punishing finish.

Resilience Amid Challenges

Facing a high-quality opponent, conceding an early goal can often lead to a landslide defeat. However, the U.S. regained composure and created the majority of chances for the remainder of the first half.

Christian Pulisic wrapped up two strong send-off performances, leading the team with 18 aggressive duels and making significant pushes with a team-high of six progressive carries over a total distance of 217 meters.

Furthermore, three substitutes challenged Baumann effectively, and wingback Max Arfsten made a notable impact, completing four progressive carries with a distance of 106 meters in just 18 minutes.

In sum, Pochettino expressed his approval of the team’s spirit.

“We’re not just discussing the quality of the coaching or tactical plans; it is about the culture,” he noted after the game. “Without energy, commitment, trust, and confidence—values vital to the sport—it becomes impossible to perform.”