Trump’s pre-match message lifts USMNT as Team USA beats Paraguay 4-1: 'Really good chance'

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump sent a message of encouragement to the United States Men's National Soccer Team ahead of its opening match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, telling players he thought they had "a really good chance of going all the way." The United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 in a dominant start to the tournament on home soil.

The four-goal performance by the United States was one of the most commanding World Cup win in recent American soccer history and marked a strong opening statement. Trump called just before kickoff, with players and coaches gathering around to listen as he wished the team luck ahead of the match.

Trump praises Mauricio Pochettino and USMNT before opening match

A video released by the White House showed Trump speaking by phone with United States Men's National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino and the team captain before the game.

The president was introduced to the squad by Andrew Giuliani, who told him the players were “ready to go and run through a wall.”

Trump congratulated Pochettino on his coaching and expressed confidence in the team’s chances.

“Well, I just called to say you're a fantastic guy, a fantastic coach,” Trump said. “I know how great the players are. I think you've got a really good chance of going all the way. So I just want to wish you a lot of luck.”

Pochettino thanked the president for the support, replying, “Thank you so much for your support, Mr. President.”

Trump concluded the conversation by telling the players he was proud of them and that they had backing from people across the country.

"I'm proud of you and all the people here in this country,” he said before the team headed onto the field.

The conversation took place hours before the United States opened its World Cup campaign against Paraguay.

United States delivers biggest World Cup win in decades against Paraguay

The encouragement was followed by a commanding 4-1 victory that became one of the most memorable performances in US World Cup history.

The result has been widely described as the United States’ most emphatic World Cup win since 1930, highlighting a strong start to the tournament being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The performance also added renewed optimism about the United States’ chances of making a deep run under Pochettino, who took charge ahead of the competition.

With soccer receiving unprecedented attention in the United States during the home World Cup, the tournament continues to draw major interest nationwide.

For the United States Men's National Soccer Team, the focus now returns to the field after a statement win that set the tone for their campaign.