USMNT to Face Ghana in Massachusetts Friendly Match, Says U.S. Soccer

The U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) will play a friendly match against Ghana in Massachusetts on Tuesday, according to a statement from U.S. Soccer. The game, part of the team’s preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will take place at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, the federation confirmed.

Match Details and Context

The matchup against Ghana marks the first of two friendly fixtures for the USMNT in June 2023, as head coach Gregg Berhalter continues to build momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. U.S. Soccer cited the “strategic importance of testing against top-tier African competition” in a press release. The game will be the first between the two nations since 2017, when the U.S. won 2-1 in a World Cup qualifier.

Ghana’s national team, ranked 64th in the FIFA world rankings, is preparing for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The match in Massachusetts will provide a high-stakes environment for the U.S. squad, which has struggled to secure consistent results in recent international competitions.

Tuchel’s Role in the Build-Up

While the USMNT’s coaching staff has not yet been officially linked to the match, former Paris Saint-Germain manager Thomas Tuchel has been under consideration for a potential role in the team’s development. Tuchel, who recently stepped down as PSG coach, has expressed interest in working with U.S. Soccer, according to a report from The New York Times. However, no formal agreement has been announced.

“This game is about evaluating our options and preparing for the challenges ahead,” Berhalter said in a press conference. “We’re looking at every opportunity to strengthen the team, and this match against Ghana is a key step in that process.”

Why This Matters for the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup, set to be the first to feature 48 teams, presents a unique opportunity for the U.S. to establish itself as a regional powerhouse. Hosting the event will require the USMNT to demonstrate consistency on the global stage, particularly against strong African and European sides. The friendly against Ghana follows a 1-1 draw with Mexico in March, highlighting the team’s need for more competitive preparation.

Historically, the U.S. has faced challenges against African teams, losing to Nigeria in the 2010 World Cup and drawing with Egypt in 2019. The match in Massachusetts could serve as a critical test for Berhalter’s tactical approach, particularly in midfield and defensive transitions.

What’s Next for the USMNT?

Following the Ghana game, the USMNT will face Costa Rica in a friendly on June 15. The team’s performance in these matches will influence its World Cup qualifying campaign, which begins in September. U.S. Soccer has emphasized the importance of “building depth and cohesion” as the tournament approaches.

“We’re focused on the process, not the outcome,” Berhalter said. “Every game is a chance to grow, and we’re committed to delivering results that reflect our potential.”

Additional reporting by U.S. News & World Report.