Goodman: World Cup villains? Time for Americans to embrace being the bullies

This is an opinion column.

The U.S. Men’s National Team is undoubtedly more talented than the scrappy squads of the past. With Christian Pulisic leading the charge at AC Milan and Birmingham native Chris Richards holding down the defensive line for Crystal Palace, the roster pedigree has never been stronger. But as the World Cup kicks off, the real question is whether this team has the stomach for the fight ahead.

A World Against the U.S.

The U.S. may be playing host, but they are far from the crowd favorite on the global stage. Between international headlines and shifting perceptions, the USMNT is stepping into an environment where the "us against the world" mentality is a literal reality. Whether intentional or not, the Americans are walking into this tournament as the villains.

The Road Ahead

The 48-team tournament spans North America, starting this Thursday with Mexico vs. South Africa at 2 p.m. and South Korea vs. Czechia at 9 p.m. The action concludes with the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. For the Americans, the journey begins Friday at 8 p.m. against Paraguay at the Rose Bowl.

Critics, myself included, are skeptical about the team's ability to escape a rugged Group D, which also features Türkiye and Australia. Memories of a 2025 bench-clearing brawl with Paraguay prove that opponents are eager to take a shot at the U.S. squad. The question isn't just about Pulisic's offensive flair or Richards' defensive prowess—it’s about whether this team can handle the physical toll of a high-stakes tournament.

Gritty Mentality Required

Past American sides were defined by the grit of players like Clint Dempsey, Brian McBride, and Claudio Reyna. If the current generation wants to make history, they will need to rediscover that toughness. While Pulisic has promised an "exciting brand of soccer," the reality of the World Cup often demands winning at all costs rather than style points. I’m predicting a loss against Paraguay, as this team has shown a tendency to fade when the pressure mounts.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino’s roster decisions, particularly leaving behind the relentless Diego Luna in favor of a gamble on Gio Reyna, only add to the intrigue. Whether Reyna provides a spark or the team struggles to find its identity, the players now have the chance to silence the doubters.

The world may be waiting for the U.S. to falter, but a unified team with hearts of iron and steel could prove to be a dangerous force. Under the bright lights, the anti-American sentiment might just provide the extra edge needed to bring the team—and perhaps the country—together for a common goal: winning.

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