Jim Harbaugh and Mauricio Pochettino Connect Before World Cup

WHO:

chargers.com - Jim Harbaugh, head coach of the Chargers, and Mauricio Pochettino, manager of the U.S. men's national team (USMNT).

The New York Times - Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the USMNT.

WHAT:

chargers.com - Harbaugh and Pochettino met pitchside at SoFi Stadium and exchanged jerseys.

chargers.com - The U.S. men's national team is set to play Paraguay in their World Cup opener.

The New York Times - Pochettino stated there would be no motivational speech before the match against Paraguay.

The New York Times - Pochettino confirmed that all 26 players on the squad are available for selection.

The New York Times - Matt Freese is expected to be part of the USMNT’s starting lineup against Paraguay.

WHERE:

chargers.com - SoFi Stadium, Southern California.

The New York Times - The match against Paraguay will take place at SoFi Stadium.

WHEN:

chargers.com - The World Cup opener against Paraguay is scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. (PT).

chargers.com - The U.S. will play Australia on June 19 and Turkey on June 25.

The New York Times - Pochettino's coaching debut at a World Cup is on the day of the match against Paraguay.

WHY:

The New York Times - Pochettino emphasized that players should be ready without needing external motivation.

HOW:

The New York Times - Pochettino instructed players to play "like they are a child" to alleviate pressure and focus on their performance.

(UPDATED June 12, 2026 06:34 UTC)

In an exciting moment at SoFi Stadium, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and U.S. men's national team manager Mauricio Pochettino exchanged jerseys ahead of the World Cup opener against Paraguay, scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. (PT). Pochettino confirmed that all 26 players are available for selection and emphasized that there would be no motivational speech before the match, encouraging players to approach the game with the carefree spirit of a child. As Pochettino makes his coaching debut at a World Cup, Matt Freese is expected to be part of the starting lineup against Paraguay.