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CHICAGO — June 6, 2026: The United States Men’s National Team closed out its final preparation match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2–1 loss to Germany at Soldier Field.
In front of a sold-out crowd of 63,636, the USMNT showed energy, fight, and moments of promise against one of Europe’s strongest sides. Although the result did not go their way, Mauricio Pochettino’s team left Chicago with plenty to build on before opening the World Cup against Paraguay on June 12.
Germany struck almost immediately, taking the lead in the second minute after Joshua Kimmich delivered a dangerous free kick into the box. Kai Havertz found space inside the area and headed home the opener, putting the United States behind early.
Instead of folding, the USMNT responded with confidence. The Americans grew into the match, pushed numbers forward, and began creating chances through Christian Pulisic, Sergiño Dest, Folarin Balogun, and Antonee Robinson. Their pressure paid off in the 37th minute when Robinson delivered one of the biggest moments of the night.
After Germany failed to fully clear a U.S. corner kick, the ball dropped near the top of the box. Robinson stepped into it and ripped a left-footed volley into the net, sending Soldier Field into a roar and tying the match at 1–1.
The goal gave the United States momentum heading into halftime, but Germany found the breakthrough again in the second half. In the 57th minute, Havertz slipped the ball to Leroy Sané, who fired a low shot past Matt Freese to restore Germany’s lead.
The U.S. continued to push late, creating chances through Joe Scally and Brenden Aaronson, but Germany held on to secure the win. Despite the loss, the performance showed a stronger mentality from the Americans, especially after falling behind early against a top-ranked opponent.
Antonee Robinson was the clear standout for the USMNT, scoring his fifth international goal and bringing life to the American attack. Matt Freese played the full 90 minutes in goal, while Pochettino used the match to test his group one final time before the tournament begins.
The match also carried a special feeling beyond the scoreline. With the 2026 World Cup just days away, the atmosphere in Chicago felt like a preview of what is coming this summer across the United States. The USMNT may not have earned the result, but the team showed fight, urgency, and belief.
Now, the focus shifts to the biggest stage. The United States will begin its World Cup campaign on June 12 against Paraguay in Los Angeles, where the pressure — and the opportunity — will be even greater.
