World Cup 2026 live: Trump ‘set to miss’ USA’s opening game as coach Pochettino addresses co-hosts’ ‘arrogance’
World Cup 2026: Trump's Absence and Pochettino's Remarks on U.S. Soccer's Confidence
World Cup 2026 live - The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially kicked off, with the first match taking place in Mexico City this evening. The tournament's opening ceremony, featuring performances by global music icons Shakira and Burna Boy, set the stage for the event, marking the beginning of a month-long celebration of international football. As the spotlight shifts to the United States, however, concerns about the nation's role in hosting the competition have already surfaced.
Trump Expected to Skip U.S. Opening Match
Former President Donald Trump is anticipated to miss the U.S. team’s debut game against Paraguay on Friday, according to recent reports. While the reason for his absence remains unclear, it has sparked discussions about his involvement in the tournament’s organization. Coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is overseeing the U.S. squad, has taken the opportunity to address perceived attitudes within the co-host nation, calling out its "arrogance" in the context of global soccer competition.
"I accept the arrogance of Spain, Argentina, England, France... but when I see arrogance in the United States, I think there’s a bit of confusion," Pochettino stated during an interview with El Pais. "There’s a mismatch between what they think they are and what they are. They believe they are the best, but then they don’t compete and don’t win."
Pochettino’s comments come as the U.S. team prepares for their first match, which will be broadcast in the UK on ITV1 starting at 6:15pm BST. The opening game in Mexico City is expected to draw a large audience, but the focus on the nation’s perceived superiority has raised questions about how its football culture compares to traditional powerhouses. The coach emphasized that while the U.S. is a formidable force in other sports, its soccer identity may still require refinement.
FIFA Faces Scrutiny Over Visa Dispute and Ticket Controversy
As the tournament unfolds, FIFA itself is under pressure from various fronts. The organization's president, Gianni Infantino, recently held a pre-tournament press conference where he addressed a contentious issue involving a Somali referee denied a visa to enter the U.S. The incident, linked to Omar Artan’s alleged ties to "suspected members of terror organizations," has drawn criticism from the Trump administration and fans alike.
"Just chill," Infantino said, addressing the mounting tensions. "FIFA must understand that Texans take their competition—and their consumer rights—seriously."
Infantino’s call for calm was met with mixed reactions, as the visa saga highlighted broader concerns about the governance of the tournament. Additionally, FIFA is now facing an investigation into claims that it misled fans regarding the quality and location of seats for games in Houston and Dallas. The Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton, has taken up the case, accusing FIFA of failing to meet expectations during the build-up to the event.
The controversy has escalated as some supporters allege that premium tickets for certain matches were overpriced and offered less desirable viewing experiences than promised. A round-trip train ticket to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, for instance, has surged from $12.90 to $98, following intense public backlash. Shuttle buses, which originally cost $80, now charge $20, but the fare hikes have left many fans frustrated. Despite these challenges, the German national team has made a gesture to ease the burden on supporters, offering to cover transportation costs for 600 attendees of their Group E match against Ecuador.
Rebuilding Soccer Identity in the U.S.
Pochettino’s critique of U.S. football’s "arrogance" extends beyond the pitch, touching on how the nation’s soccer culture is shaped by its broader sports dominance. In a revealing interview, the coach elaborated on the disconnect between public perception and on-field performance. "We’re number one in basketball and hockey," he acknowledged, "but that doesn’t mean we have to be number one in soccer. It’s about creating a realistic challenge for the team."
"I’m from the United States. We’re number one. We’re the best. We fought and reached the Moon first... but then they don’t compete and don’t win," Pochettino noted, highlighting the irony of the U.S. football’s self-assured rhetoric. "It’s a mismatch between what they think they are and what they are."
These remarks underscore a growing debate about the expectations placed on American soccer. While the U.S. has made strides in recent years, Pochettino’s comments suggest that the nation’s global reputation may still lag behind its achievements in other sports. The coach’s focus on structural balance within U.S. soccer reflects a desire to ensure the team competes on a level playing field, rather than relying on perceived superiority.
International Football’s Challenges and Triumphs
As the World Cup progresses, the challenges faced by organizers and participants alike are becoming increasingly apparent. The opening ceremony in Mexico City, with its star-studded lineup, marked the start of a historic event that will be hosted across three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament’s success hinges on its ability to manage these logistical hurdles while maintaining the integrity of the sport.
Meanwhile, the German team’s decision to subsidize fan travel costs for their final Group E match against Ecuador has become a symbol of camaraderie amid the logistical strain. This gesture, though small, highlights the grassroots support for the sport and the importance of connecting with fans, even as ticket prices and transportation costs rise. The U.S. and Mexico, as co-hosts, have a unique opportunity to showcase their cultural and sporting diversity, but they must also address the growing concerns about transparency and accessibility.
Infantino’s recent comments, while aimed at calming nerves, reveal the complexity of FIFA’s role in managing these expectations. His advice to "chill" contrasts with the fervor of fans who have endured long waits for tickets and rising prices. The visa dispute involving the Somali referee adds another layer to the tournament’s narrative, raising questions about how international organizations navigate the political landscape of their host countries.
Looking Ahead: A Test of Soccer’s Global Reach
With the World Cup underway, the focus will remain on the competition’s ability to unite fans and countries under the shared love of football. The opening match in Mexico City is not just a game—it’s a statement about the tournament’s potential to bridge divides and foster excitement. As the U.S. team steps onto the field, their performance will be closely watched, not only for results but also for how it reflects the nation’s evolving approach to the sport.
Despite the challenges, the tournament offers a chance for soccer to shine in a country known for its other sports. Pochettino’s insights into the U.S. team’s mindset provide a critical perspective, reminding all that success in football requires more than self-belief—it demands consistent effort and realistic expectations. As the World Cup progresses, the interplay between arrogance, preparation, and public perception will continue to shape its legacy.