USMNT Finalises World Cup Squad Ahead of Senegal Friendly

The United States Men’s National Team will face Senegal in its first preparatory friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup on Sunday at 3:30 pm ET. The fixture takes place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, with broadcast coverage available on TBS and HBO Max in English, and Universo and Peacock in Spanish.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino has finalised the 26-man squad for the tournament, signalling a shift away from the experimentation seen in earlier windows. With the group now assembled, Pochettino is expected to field his ideal starting XI. The recovery window between this match and the second friendly six days later, followed by a six-day break before the tournament opener against Paraguay on June 12, should alleviate concerns regarding player fatigue.

Centre-back Chris Richards will not travel to Charlotte due to an ankle sprain sustained while on the bench for Crystal Palace’s victory in the UEFA Europa Conference League final on Wednesday. Richards is expected to remain in the Atlanta suburbs for rehabilitation rather than joining the squad, though he is anticipated to be fit for the tournament. His absence makes a 3-4-3 formation a virtual certainty for the USMNT.

The projected USMNT lineup features Matt Freese in goal, with a back three of Auston Trusty, Tim Ream, and Mark McKenzie. The midfield four is expected to comprise Antonee Robinson, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Sergino Dest, supporting a front three of Tim Weah, Folarin Balogun, and Christian Pulisic.

Senegal is viewed as the stronger side, having cruised through their qualifying group which included DR Congo. The African side boasts an exceptional roster including Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, Iliman Ndiaye, and Pape Gueye. There is uncertainty surrounding the fitness of captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who missed the end of Al-Hilal’s season due to injury.

Pochettino’s tactical approach favours attacking transitions, suggesting an open contest despite the low stakes. Senegal’s pace and quality on the flanks present a significant challenge to the USMNT’s holding midfield. Predictions point to a narrow victory for Senegal in an attacking match, with the Americans unable to match the Africans’ superior depth and speed.