USMNT legend names ‘amazing’ star who can provide World Cup X-factor – and it’s not Christian Pulisic

Jan 29, 2026 - 13:00

Brad Friedel knows a thing or two about World Cup surprises.

The former goalkeeper was a key member of the United States squad that reached the quarterfinals of soccer’s biggest tournament back in 2002.

Brad Friedel in goal for the US at the 2002 World Cup — The US had a shock run to the quarterfinals of the 2002 World Cup with Friedel in goal

He was dubbed ‘The Human Wall’ by fans during that run, which featured a famous group stage win against Portugal, and a 2-0 victory against Mexico in the Last 16.

Friedel started every game of the 2002 tournament, which to this day, remains the only modern World Cup where the US has won twice.

They were beaten by eventual finalists Germany in a tight quarterfinal that was decided by a Michael Ballack goal.

In 2026, the USMNT will have a chance to impress on home turf, and their iconic goalkeeper believes the time has come for another run to the latter stages of the competition.

Brad Friedel reveals how far US will go at 2026 World Cup

Speaking to talkSPORT, Friedel said he expects the hosts to get out of Group D, which also includes Paraguay, Australia and one of Turkey, Romania, Kosovo or Slovakia.

As he knows all too well, anything can happen in knockout football — and the ex-shot stopper believes the US have the right coach in Mauricio Pochettino to guide them through.

“I expect a really competitive, good team going into this World Cup,” Friedel said.

“We should get through. We have the ability, we have the players, we’re playing at home, we’ll have the fans.

“I fully anticipate us getting through the group. World Cup competition, once you get into the knockout stages, it all depends on what place you finish in the group, what happens in the other groups, who you get drawn against.

“There’s a reason only eight other nations have won a World Cup. It’s hard to win them. If you don’t get a fortunate draw in the knockout games, it’s really difficult for nations like the United States to win.

USA line up for a team photo, 17 June 2002 at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium in Jeonju, ahead of second round playoff action between Mexico and USA — The 2002 World Cup was the only modern tournament where the US have won twice

Tyler Adams #4, Christian Pulisic #10, Sergiño Dest #2 and Weston McKennie #8 of the United States celebrates the Concacaf Nations League trophy after the Concacaf Nations League final match between Mexico and USMNT at AT&T Stadium on March 24, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. — Friedel believes the current team can reach the last eight in 2026

“In 2002, we made it to the quarterfinals and arguably we were the better team against Germany.

“During that World Cup, Turkey was also excellent. Long runs can happen. We have the right guy in Mauricio (Pochettino) to hopefully lead us to quarterfinals and beyond.”

Friedel is hoping for big things, and much of the USMNT hopes for 2026 have long been pinned on Christian Pulisic.

The former Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea attacker, who has more recently rejuvenated his career in Italy with AC Milan, will be expected to provide the goals and assists to help carry his nation forward in 2026.

Pulisic, despite being just 27, is the most recognizable name on Pochettino’s team sheet and already has 82 caps to his name.

But Friedel believes the US have another, younger star, who can provide the ‘X-factor’ that the World Cup stage demands.

Christian Pulisic of United States reacts during the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 Group C match between United States and Bolivia — The US hopes don’t need to fall only on Pulisic’s shoulders

Who will impress for the USMNT at the World Cup?

“My favorite player with the US, and it has been since I was the under-19 national team coach, is Weston McKennie,” Friedel revealed.

“He didn’t have his best time at Leeds — I think it’s well-documented why — but as far as talent, this kid is amazing. He has it all.

“If he is focused and prepared and fit, he’s excellent. I really like him and Tyler Adams playing together in the middle of midfield. Chris Richards has also really improved over the last year and when I say improved, he’s become a leader.

“He’s become a really good player with Crystal Palace. I think we have one of the best left-backs in the entire tournament, Antonee Robinson. I think he’s outstanding. We do have a really competitive team.”

Weston McKennie #8 of United States looks on against Oman at Allianz Field on September 12, 2023 — Friedel believes McKennie can provide World Cup X-factor for the US

While Friedel picked out an exciting core of players to watch this summer, he noted that above all else, the US will need to play as a team if they want to win games.

He concluded: “We have some good players. You need those X-factor players at the end of it.

“We’re more of a team rather than individuals that are going to set the world alight.

“We’re going to have to have every single person plus the ones coming off the bench to have their best game, if we get into a knockout phase and get drawn against England or France, those type of teams.”

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