Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Former United States captain Landon Donovan has reacted strongly to Australia coach Tony Popovic’s confident comments about the 2026 World Cup draw, predicting that the Socceroos could exit early from the tournament. The U.S., who will co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, were drawn in Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and a playoff winner. Donovan believes the U.S. has the upper hand, noting that Mauricio Pochettino’s team recently beat both Paraguay and Australia, making them favourites to progress from the group.
After the draw, Popovic sounded positive about his team’s chances, saying that the players are excited and looking forward to the tournament. However, Donovan, speaking on a FOX Soccer podcast with former U.S. internationals Cobi Jones and Brad Guzan, disagreed with the Australian coach’s “smug” reaction. He said most coaches are usually cautious in their comments, but Popovic seemed unusually satisfied with the draw.
Donovan added that while Australia is a solid team and difficult to play against, he is confident the U.S. should win. On the podcast, Donovan, Jones, and Guzan all predicted that the U.S. would advance to the knockout stages, topping the group. Donovan jokingly told Popovic to “get back on the Qantas airplane” after the tournament, emphasizing his belief that the U.S. will outperform Australia.
In their group predictions, Donovan and his co-hosts suggested the playoff winner would finish second, Paraguay third, and Australia would struggle, reinforcing Donovan’s criticism of Popovic’s confidence. Donovan’s remarks underline his competitive mindset and belief in the U.S. team’s chances as hosts in the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup.
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