United States fall 2-1 to Germany in final World Cup warm‑up
The U.S. men's team lost to Germany at Soldier Field, but a strong defensive effort and Antonee Robinson's volley gave signs of progress ahead of the World Cup.
The United States men's national team were beaten 2-1 by Germany in a pre‑World Cup friendly at Chicago's Soldier Field on Saturday. Antonee Robinson scored the Americans' sole goal with a volley from a corner, while Germany responded with goals from Kai Havertz and Leroy Sané.
Germany opened the scoring early after a free‑kick from Joshua Kimmich found Havertz, who headed past goalkeeper Matt Freese. The United States equalised in the 23rd minute when Robinson struck a powerful volley from just outside the box. Sané restored Germany's lead in the 57th minute with a finish after a through‑ball from Jamal Musiala.
Coach Gregg Berhalter's side kept the same eleven players into the second half, but Germany's disciplined defensive shape limited further American chances. The United States' midfield, including Christian Pulisic and Sergiño Dest, struggled to create clear opportunities, and forward Folarin Balogun received limited service.
Goalkeeper Matt Freese played the full match, while the defensive unit, featuring Tim Ream and Miles Robinson, showed resilience despite physical challenges from the German side. Substitutions after the hour mark disrupted the U.S. high‑pressing rhythm, and the team finished the match without further goals.
Berhalter praised the team's response to the early deficit, noting the improvement from earlier friendlies and the cohesion built under new coach Javier Pochettino. The result leaves the United States with one more friendly before the World Cup group stage begins next week.
