The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to participate in two international friendly matches in October as part of its preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The games will take place against Venezuela and Australia, with the exact dates yet to be announced. U.S. Soccer made the announcement on Monday, highlighting the importance of these matches in fine-tuning the team’s strategy and player development.
The friendlies are expected to provide valuable competitive experience for the squad, allowing players to adapt to different styles of play and test various formations. Head coach Gregg Berhalter is likely to use these matches to evaluate emerging talent and solidify the starting line-up for the World Cup qualifiers. The matches will also offer the team an opportunity to build chemistry and confidence ahead of the high-stakes tournament.
While the exact match venues and schedules have not been disclosed, the games are anticipated to be held in the United States or neighboring countries. The selection of Venezuela and Australia as opponents reflects the team’s strategic focus on challenging matches that can help improve performance. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, U.S. Soccer continues to prioritize comprehensive preparation to ensure the team is in optimal condition for the global competition.