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Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has backed the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) to challenge for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title after their impressive 2-0 victory over Australia.
The result secured qualification for the knockout stage and marked the first time the United States has won its opening two World Cup matches since 1930. As confidence continues to grow around Mauricio Pochettino’s team, Ibrahimovic believes the hosts have everything needed to make a serious title push.
USA Beat Australia to Reach the Knockout Stage
The United States produced another confident performance in front of their home fans in Seattle.
An early own goal from Cameron Burgess gave the hosts the perfect start. Later in the match, rising defender Alex Freeman scored with a well-taken header to seal a 2-0 victory.
The win guaranteed a place in the Round of 32 with one group match still to play. More importantly, it strengthened the belief that this American side can compete with the world’s best teams.
Ibrahimovic Urges Fans to Believe
Speaking after the match on Fox Sports, Ibrahimovic praised the United States for their display and highlighted the importance of momentum in a World Cup.
He encouraged American supporters to fully believe in their national team.
“If you didn’t believe before, I will repeat; start believing. They have the country behind them, and when you have this support, it’s difficult to beat you.”
He also felt Australia never seriously threatened the United States during the match.
According to Ibrahimovic, performances before the tournament no longer matter. Instead, he believes confidence built during the competition is what decides World Cup success.
He added that the United States should carry this momentum into every game and could even rest some key players in the final group match after already securing qualification.
One-Word Prediction: ‘Yes’
Presenter Rebecca Lowe asked Ibrahimovic whether he believed the United States could actually lift the World Cup trophy.
His answer was short but clear.
“Yes.”
The former LA Galaxy forward’s confidence reflects the growing excitement surrounding Mauricio Pochettino’s squad after two impressive performances.
Mauricio Pochettino Praises Players and Fans
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino was delighted with both the performance and the atmosphere created by the home supporters in Seattle.
The Argentine manager said his players controlled the match from the opening whistle against a physically strong Australian side.
He also praised the American fans, comparing their passion to that of supporters in Argentina.
Pochettino said the team is building a strong connection with the fans, something he believes can become a major advantage as the tournament progresses.
Home Advantage Could Make the Difference
Playing the World Cup on home soil has given the United States tremendous support throughout the tournament.
Large crowds have created an energetic atmosphere in every match, helping drive the team forward.
Ibrahimovic believes that kind of backing can become a decisive factor during the knockout rounds, where small moments often determine the outcome of games.
Focus Shifts to Turkey
Although qualification is already secured, the United States still have an important task ahead.
Their final Group D match comes against Turkey in Los Angeles.
A victory would allow the Americans to finish at the top of the group, potentially giving them a more favorable path in the knockout stage.
Pochettino may also choose to rotate parts of his squad while keeping the team’s winning momentum intact.
USA Emerging as Serious Contenders
Two victories, qualification with a game to spare, growing confidence, and strong home support have transformed expectations around the USMNT.
While tougher challenges await in the knockout rounds, the United States has already shown they can compete under pressure.
With experienced coach Mauricio Pochettino leading the team and influential voices like Zlatan Ibrahimovic backing their chances, belief continues to grow that the hosts could produce one of the biggest surprises of the FIFA World Cup 2026.