USA vs. Senegal: World Cup Preparations Kick Off in Charlotte

The United States kick off their final preparations for co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a crucial friendly against Senegal at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, home of Charlotte FC.

This is the USMNT's first of two exhibitions ahead of their World Cup Group D opener against Paraguay on June 12 in Los Angeles.

After facing Senegal, head coach Mauricio Pochettino's team will play global powerhouse Germany in Chicago on June 16.

With the USMNT's 26-man World Cup roster finalized, featuring eight MLS players and 13 MLS products, a positive showing would boost morale before this summer's highly anticipated tournament begins.

The USMNT struggled in the March window, losing against global powerhouses Belgium and Portugal. But a home World Cup can prove powerful, and the USMNT have arguably never been more talented.

For the likes of Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie, it's all about turning this generation's lofty potential into a transformational performance.

Senegal offer a strong test as they prepare for their World Cup Group I opener on June 16 against France.

The Lions of Teranga are led by all-time leading goalscorer Sadio Mané, who previously starred for Liverpool and Bayern Munich before moving to the Saudi Pro League.

Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye and Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr are additional standouts for a country that finished second in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Making their fourth World Cup appearance, Senegal's best-ever showing came via a quarterfinal run at the 2002 tournament.