The United States is gearing up for what could potentially be its most important soccer tournament in the nation's history.

There are plenty of storylines to unpick in a potential Group G featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, not suspended, and Portugal. The 40-year-old is set to go up against his current adopted home, Saudi Arabia, while World Cup minnows Cape Verde was ruled by Portugal until as recently as 1975.

The United States' men's national team announced its slate of 2026 friendlies on Tuesday as it continues its preparations for the World Cup.

Having automatically qualified as a host nation, the U.S. was helpfully put in Pot 1 of the draw, meaning that it will avoid most of the big-name soccer nations of Europe and South America that are quadrennial threats to hoist the trophy.

This article was originally published on www.si.com as 2026 World Cup Draw LIVE: USMNT, Mexico, Argentina Discover Group Opponents.

World Cup draws have always been a dramatic part of soccer's tapestry. This one could go a lot of ways for the U.S. team, and for fans in Philadelphia waiting to see which teams will come to town.

One of the keys to the USMNT's turnaround was Pochettino's decision to move the team into a three-man back line. That tweak also changes how Pochettino will view the 26 players he'll select for the World Cup roster.

Landon Donovan, Alexi Lalas, Stu Holden and Cobi Jones weighed in on whether Portugal is better without Cristiano Ronaldo and if they should bench him.