ESPN gathered a panel of coaches and analysts to judge whether the USMNT can surprise at the 48‑team 2026 World Cup. After a 4-1 opening win over Paraguay, a 2‑0 victory against Australia and a 3‑2 loss to Türkiye, the squad heads into a round‑of‑32 tie with Bosnia‑Herzegovina. Opinions focus on the team’s tactical cohesion and star power.

Phil Neville praised the side’s “top‑three” tactical display, while ex‑NYCFC boss Nick Cushing highlighted the intensity and pressing that drove the early matches. Analysts noted the midfield trio of Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie as the engine room, and goalkeeper Matt Freese as a rising star. The consensus is that depth across Ligue 1, Premier League and La Liga adds credibility.

Critics such as Hugo Sánchez and Shaka Hislop argue the U.S. still lacks knockout‑stage experience, recalling defeats in 2002, 2014 and 2022. Yet the panel agrees the squad’s aggressive set‑piece work and unified execution under coach Mauricio Pochettino could carry them beyond the round of 16. If the team replicates its group‑stage form, a deep run is plausible.