The U.S. Men’s National Team is preparing for two critical international friendlies this September, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino has named a strong 23-man roster. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming, these matches against World Cup-qualified sides Korea Republic and Japan offer a crucial opportunity to fine-tune tactics, integrate rising talents, and gauge international competition.
Two Matches, One Mission
The USA will first face Korea Republic on Sept. 6 at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, N.J. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. ET, with national broadcasts on TNT, Telemundo, Max, Universo, and Peacock. Three days later, the USMNT hosts Japan in Columbus, Ohio at Lower.com Field. That match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET and shares the same broadcasting lineup.
These games mark an important stretch for the USMNT, as they aim to solidify a player pool capable of delivering a deep World Cup run on home soil in 2026.
Big Names, Big Returns
The roster features veterans like Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), and Tim Ream (Charlotte FC). Pulisic leads the roster with 78 caps, bringing leadership and experience, while Tim Weah returns to Champions League football with Marseille.
A notable comeback is Sergiño Dest, who’s back after recovering from a torn ACL and has already scored twice this season for PSV. Josh Sargent, on a goal-scoring tear for Norwich City, and midfield stalwarts Luca de la Torre and Diego Luna bring balance and creativity.
Rising Stars and Fresh Faces
Several players will look to make their senior debuts, including 18-year-old Noahkai Banks (FC Augsburg), who represents a new generation of defensive talent. Goalkeepers Roman Celentano (FC Cincinnati) and Jonathan Klinsmann (Cesena) are also eyeing their first caps.
Atlanta-based fans will be watching midfielder Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps) and defender Alex Freeman (Orlando City), both of whom are alumni of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy, like many on this squad.
Gold Cup Momentum
Twelve players from the recent 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup runner-up squad return, including Chris Richards, who anchored the defense and scored twice, and Diego Luna, who earned Man of the Match honors in the semifinal win over Guatemala. Their Gold Cup form should carry into these friendlies.
How to Watch & Follow
Both matches will be available in English and Spanish via TV and streaming:
- Sept. 6 vs Korea Republic: 5 p.m. ET – TNT, Telemundo, Max, Universo, Peacock
- Sept. 9 vs Japan: 7:30 p.m. ET – TNT, Max, Universo, Peacock
Radio broadcasts will feature English commentary from Westwood One Sports and Spanish coverage from Fútbol de Primera.
What This Means
This camp is a critical checkpoint for Pochettino’s squad. It’s a time to assess player chemistry, fitness, and performance under pressure. These games offer young players a chance to rise and experienced stars a moment to lead. The U.S. is not just preparing for friendlies – it’s preparing for destiny on home soil in 2026.
Join the Conversation
Which players are you most excited to see take the field? Who do you think should’ve made the squad? Let us know your thoughts on X, Instagram (@USMNT), or tag us on Facebook using #USMNT.
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