Possible USMNT lineup for New Zealand international friendly match

Following their first home defeat to Canada in 67 years, the United States have a new chance of quick redemption as they face New Zealand in Cincinnati on Tuesday night.

Ahead of the imminent arrival of new head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the national team desperately needs to get back on the winning groove having slipped up in their past three games and failing to record a win since beating Bolivia in their opening test at the 2024 Copa America.

Everything points to the Cincinnati friendly as being interim boss Mikey Varas’ last game at the helm with the coach expected to make changes from the team who slumped to Canada in Kansas City last Saturday. In attack, Ricardo Pepi is expected to take the place of Balogun, who started against the Canadians, while Yunus Musah will once again marshall the centre of the park. One of the outstanding question marks related to Cade Cowell starting at left back.

Poch imminent

After the New Zealand test in Cincinnati, US Soccer is expected to announce the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as new national team head coach later this week. After several weeks of negotiations, the Argentine is poised to take over as the 2026 World Cup looms large on the horizon with the US co-hosting the tournament along with Canada and Mexico. The 52-year-old’s first games in charge will take place during the international window in October when the USMNT face Panama and Mexico.

Potential USA lineup

XI: Turner; Scally, Trusty, Richards, Lund; Musah, Morris, Tillman; Sargent, Pepi, Pulisic.

Coach: Mikey Varas.

Potential New Zealand lineup

XI: Crocombe, Payne, Boxall, Tuiloma, Cacace; Rufer, Stamenic; Barbarouses, Waine, Just; Wood.

Coach: Darren Bazeley