President Donald Trump reached out to the U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team ahead of their World Cup opener against Paraguay. The match is taking place in Los Angeles at SoFi Stadium, where Trump will not be present. Instead, he shared encouraging words with the team via phone on Thursday evening.
Trump’s Message to the U.S. Soccer Team
During the call, Trump expressed his support, stating, “We’re all rooting for you. The pressure is gone. Have some fun.” This message was relayed by Fox Sports’ Jenny Taft, who noted that the team later posted a video clip of the interaction.
In his remarks, Trump praised coach Mauricio Pochettino, highlighting his impressive track record. “I’ve heard all about your record and success; I know how great the players are. I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way,” he said. Pochettino responded appreciatively, assuring the president that the team would strive to make America proud.
Event Details
The opening match against Paraguay kicks off at 6 p.m. PT, with the World Cup ceremony beginning 90 minutes earlier. The ceremony will feature performances from notable artists, including Katy Perry and rapper Future.
- Match: U.S.A. vs. Paraguay
- Date: Friday, [insert date]
- Location: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
- Kick-off Time: 6 p.m. PT
- Ceremony Start: 4:30 p.m. PT
While Trump will be absent from this match, several cabinet members will attend, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others from his administration.
Upcoming Events and Projections
Trump will engage in a different event over the weekend, attending a UFC fight hosted at the White House. This event marks celebrations for both America’s 250th anniversary and Trump’s 80th birthday.
The State Department characterized the World Cup as a significant opportunity for the administration, showcasing U.S. leadership and hospitality to a global audience.
Future Matches and Predictions
Looking ahead, the USA is expected to progress in a competitive group that includes Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey. According to the prediction market Polymarket, over $14.2 million has been wagered on the match, indicating a strong interest. As of the latest predictions:
| Outcome | Probability |
|---|---|
| USA Win | 46% |
| Paraguay Win | 25% |
| Draw | 30% |
Trump plans to attend the World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, further underlining his commitment to the tournament and its significance to the nation.
