World Cup 2026 Soccer Tim Howard puts damper on USMNT’s dream World Cup hopes with sobering reality By Ryan Giancola Published June 22, 2026, 5:57 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results.
Add The New York Post on Google The USA has been on a tear at the World Cup.
The Group D winners are through to the round of 32. They were the second team to clinch their spot in the next round.
With spirits high, many are asking if the USA can make a run of a lifetime and maybe lift their first World Cup in the country’s history.
One USA soccer legend is bringing this hype train to a grinding halt. One of the greatest World Cup goalies, Tim Howard, believes that it is “literally impossible” for the USA to shock the soccer world.
“The U.S. cannot, unequivocally, win the World Cup,” Howard said on the Unfiltered Soccer Podcast on Saturday, debating with Landon Donovan. “The U.S. will have to play the greatest game they’ve ever played [four] times in a row. They’re going to have to beat [four] world soccer powerhouses in a row… The round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, finals. It is literally impossible for the U.S. to win the World Cup… That’s just the reality.”
Howard featured in three World Cups with the national team. His most noteworthy appearance came in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Former USMNT goalie Tim Howard @unfilteredsoccer He broke the record for most saves in a World Cup match with 16. Those heroics in 2014 almost saw the USA beat Belgium to make the quarterfinals. But the offense was unable to break down Belgium, leading to a 2-1 loss in extra time.
His former teammate, Donovan, did not go as far as to call the chances impossible, but he did agree that it is highly unlikely for the US to beat multiple quality teams in a row.
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But while both former players agreed that the US might have to face four higher-ranked nations, the actual number might be only three.
As of Monday, the USA is projected to face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32, followed by the winner of Egypt vs Czechia if they advance to the round of 16.
Players of USA celebrate after the 2026 FIFA World Cup First Stage Group D match between USA and Australia at Lumen Field (Seattle Stadium) in Seattle, Washington, United States on June 19, 2026. Anadolu via Getty Images If that becomes the final playoff bracket, the USA would not face a top-10 opponent until the quarterfinals, which is most likely Spain.
While a run to lift the coveted trophy is unlikely, a top 8 finish could be in the cards.
