USMNT Faces Mounting Pressure After Crushing Defeat
Switzerland Hands Americans Fourth Straight Loss Ahead of 2026 World Cup
The United States men’s national soccer team is grappling with serious concerns just 366 days before hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a demoralizing 4-0 loss to Switzerland on Tuesday. The result intensifies scrutiny as the team struggles to find form under new leadership.
Alarming Losing Streak
This marks the first time the USMNT has endured four consecutive defeats since 2007. They haven’t secured a victory against a European opponent in seven straight matches. While key players like Christian Pulisic were absent due to rest and club commitments, the margin of defeat was still unexpected.
Shifting Roster, Familiar Problems
Only two players—Matt Turner and Walker Zimmerman—from the starting lineup in the 2022 World Cup round of 16 loss to the Netherlands featured in Tuesday’s match. Turner has seen limited playing time with his club, while Zimmerman’s recall highlights the changes within the squad.
Offensive Struggles
The USMNT failed to register a single shot on target throughout the entire match, despite seven attempts. Their expected goals (xG) value was a meager 0.42, compared to Switzerland’s efficient 2.27 from seven shots on target. According to Statista, the USMNT’s average goals scored per game in 2023 was 1.4, a figure that needs significant improvement to compete at the highest level. Statista
Historic Defensive Collapse
The team conceded four goals within the opening 40 minutes, a feat not seen since 1980, and the first time it has occurred on home soil. In contrast, their previous tune-up match before the Copa America last summer saw Colombia score three goals, but only after the 77th minute.
Gold Cup Opportunity Looms
The USMNT begins its Gold Cup campaign on Sunday, presenting an immediate opportunity to reverse this troubling trend. A strong showing is crucial to build confidence and momentum ahead of the World Cup, where even progressing beyond the group stage appears challenging given the current form.
The pressure is mounting on Mauricio Pochettino and his squad to deliver tangible improvements quickly. The home advantage of the 2026 World Cup will be meaningless if the team cannot address these fundamental issues and rediscover its winning form.
