The United States fell 2-1 to Germany at Soldier Field on Saturday, ending their final warm‑up before the World Cup. Leroy Sané’s decisive strike broke a deadlock that saw the U.S. briefly threaten a draw. Manager Mauricio Pochettino fielded a line‑up that mirrors the likely starting XI against Paraguay, despite centre‑back Chris Richards’ injury concerns on the windy Chicago evening.

Antonee Robinson emerged as the brightest spot, earning a 7/10 rating after a spectacular volley and work up the left flank. His cramp exit after the hour left a gap, but his earlier contributions kept the German attack at bay. In contrast, goalkeeper Matt Freese’s positioning on Havertz’s opening goal cost the U.S. a clean sheet, reflected in a low 3 rating. Overall his impact was undeniable.

Christian Pulisic matched Robinson’s rating with a 7, driving attacks and forcing Germany to shift defensively. Midfield duo Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie each earned a middling 5, struggling on 50‑50 balls but providing occasional forward passes. The loss drops the U.S. to a 1‑1 record in the pre‑World Cup series, leaving Pochettino to fine‑tune the squad before the Paraguay opener as the team seeks cohesion.