International Break’s Biggest Questions Ahead of the 2026 World Cup
USMNT’s Defensive Dilemma
As the U.S. men’s national team prepares for friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, head coach Mauricio Pochettino faces a crucial decision at center back. His shift to a back three has bolstered the team’s spine, but with Tim Ream and Chris Richards as virtual locks for starting roles, the identity of the third center back remains the key question.
Back Three Success Under Pochettino
Pochettino’s adoption of a three-man defense has provided both cover and flexibility, allowing wing-backs and midfielders to push forward without compromising stability. Even in Tyler Adams’s absence, this structure has fueled a five-match unbeaten run. Identifying the right third option will be vital to maintaining that balance against top-level opponents.
Candidates for the Third Center Back
- Auston Trusty: Strong club form but limited impact at the international level.
- Joe Scally: Experience in a three-man backline in Germany, yet still finding his footing with the USMNT.
- Mark McKenzie: Consistent performer for club, but inconsistent in national camps.
- Tanner Tessmann: Versatile midfielder under Pochettino, untested at center back in international play.
All four candidates will face a stern test against Romelu Lukaku and Gonçalo Ramos, offering a snapshot of their readiness for World Cup pressure. History suggests late breakthroughs can occur—Tim Ream himself secured a starting spot late in the 2022 cycle, guiding the U.S. to the Round of 16.
Italy’s Qualification Crossroads
For a nation accustomed to World Cup success, Italy finds itself precariously close to missing a third straight tournament. Gennaro Gattuso’s side must navigate a playoff path against Northern Ireland, and potentially Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina, to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.
From Global Powerhouse to Playoff Underdog
Italy’s fall from grace has been swift. After failing to qualify in 2018 and exiting at the group stage in 2010 and 2014, the Azzurri were expected to avoid such struggles. Yet squad depth issues—evident in Federico Chiesa’s fitness struggles—have highlighted systemic concerns.
Key Players and Playoff Outlook
- Gianluca Scamacca: The leading striker tasked with delivering goals under high stakes.
- Moise Kean & Mateo Retegui: Young forwards whose finishing could decide Italy’s fate.
- Pio Esposito: A wildcard selection to add depth up front.
On March 26, Italy faces Northern Ireland at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia before meeting the winner of Wales vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina on March 31. Falling at this hurdle would mark one of the most shocking failures in modern Italian soccer history.
Mexico’s Goalkeeping Gamble
Mexico’s World Cup picture took an unexpected turn when starting keeper Luis Ángel Malagón suffered a torn Achilles. Coach Javier Aguirre has responded by calling up veterans Guillermo Ochoa, Carlos Acevedo, and Raul Rangel for friendlies against Portugal and Belgium.
Guillermo Ochoa’s Historic Bid
If Ochoa makes Mexico’s final roster, he will become the first player ever named to six World Cup squads. At 40 and plying his trade in Cyprus, Ochoa remains a popular figure and a steadying presence in goal. While his starting role is not guaranteed, his experience could prove invaluable in a high-pressure environment.
Up-and-Coming Contenders
- Carlos Acevedo: Young keeper with strong reflexes, earning trust in domestic competition.
- Raul Rangel: Gained minutes behind Malagón in recent friendlies, offering a glimpse of his shot-stopping abilities.
This friendly window will test Mexico’s depth at goalkeeper, determining whether experience or youth will anchor the defense in the tournament opener against South Africa.
Conclusion
This final international break before squad submissions will answer pressing questions for the U.S., Italy, and Mexico. From the USMNT’s search for a reliable third center back to Italy’s fight for survival and Mexico’s goalkeeper reshuffle, the outcomes will shape each nation’s 2026 World Cup journey.