The United States kicked off their World Cup 2026 campaign in style, thrashing Paraguay 4-1 in an impressive opening night performance on home soil.

Before that emphatic victory, US President Donald Trump sent manager Mauricio Pochettino a personal message of encouragement and belief ahead of the tournament.

Trump was effusive in his praise of Pochettino, expressing genuine confidence that the USMNT could go all the way and lift the trophy this summer.

As quoted by BBC Sport, Trump told Pochettino: “Well, I just got to say you’re a fantastic guy, a fantastic coach, and you’re all about your record and your success, and I know how great the players are.”

Trump continued: “I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way. I just want to wish you a lot of luck.”

The bold prediction raised more than a few eyebrows, with many considering it an ambitious assessment given the level of competition elsewhere in the tournament.

Co-hosts Mexico also made a winning start to proceedings, defeating South Africa 2-0 earlier in the week to delight their passionate fanbase.

Fellow co-hosts Canada were unable to match that result, however, managing only a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opening fixture.

Pochettino arrives at this tournament with a strong reputation in world football, having impressed during his time in charge of Tottenham Hotspur over a number of years.

The Argentine manager also won major trophies at Paris Saint-Germain and enjoyed a spell in charge of Chelsea before taking on the challenge of leading the USMNT.

While Pochettino is considered one of the more highly regarded coaches in the competition, the USA face enormous competition from established footballing powerhouses across the globe.

Spain are widely expected to enter the tournament as favourites, with France, England, Brazil, and Argentina all considered serious contenders for the trophy as well.

Whether Trump’s confidence in Pochettino and his players proves justified remains to be seen, but the 4-1 win over Paraguay is certainly the perfect way to begin.

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