Brad Friedel, the former U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) goalkeeper, is optimistic about Matt Freese’s potential as a breakout star in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Freese, aged 27, is poised to be the first goalkeeper from Major League Soccer (MLS) to start for the United States in a World Cup. Alongside Freese, teammates Matt Turner and Chris Brady are also competing in the tournament. Friedel emphasized Freese’s composure and athleticism, noting that he has not previously played in international youth tournaments.
Friedel’s Insights on U.S. Goalkeeping Options
Friedel, who provided Freese with his debut for the U.S. under-19 national team, described the goalkeeper as a “really good kid” with strong skills. He stated, “Technically, he’ll be very good.” However, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of goalkeeping, which is why experienced players like Turner are included for support. Friedel also highlighted the promising future of 22-year-old Chris Brady, who has a considerable number of professional appearances.
Current State of U.S. Goalkeepers
- All three U.S. goalkeepers play in MLS.
- Friedel noted the unique pressures faced in MLS compared to European leagues.
- He expressed hope that this lack of pressure could benefit Freese during his World Cup debut.
Group D Challenges in the 2026 World Cup
The U.S. is set to compete in Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey. Friedel warned that Paraguay, as a South American qualifier, poses a significant challenge. He stressed the importance of starting strong with a victory to maintain a good position in the group.
- Friedel expressed concerns about the Australian match, which he views as crucial despite the U.S. having a stronger player roster.
Expectations for Team Success
Friedel believes that reaching the knockout stages would be a successful outcome for the U.S. team. He understands that losing against top-tier teams like Spain or France can happen, but progressing is essential.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino’s Focus on the World Cup
The U.S. national team is led by head coach Mauricio Pochettino. Friedel dismissed rumors regarding Pochettino’s potential moves to other clubs, asserting that the coach remains focused on the World Cup. He believes that Pochettino’s primary objective is to lead the team successfully during the tournament hosted in North America.
Friedel’s overall assessment of the U.S. goalkeeping situation and the upcoming matches highlights both potential and challenges. As the team prepares for the World Cup, the performances of Freese and his teammates could set a new course for American soccer on the global stage.
