The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off Friday at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, and the U.S. Men’s National Team wasted no time making a statement. In front of a sold-out crowd that included celebrities, former presidents, and a whole lot of red, white, and blue, the Americans rolled past Paraguay 4–1. But one piece of pre-match energy came from a source that transcended soccer fandom.
Former President Barack Obama took to social media before the opening whistle to rally the squad. His post was brief but unmistakable: “Let’s go Team USA! Good luck at the World Cup.” The message, attached to a video from the stadium, lit up timelines and had fans wondering if the 44th president might show up in person later in the tournament.
Obama’s Soccer Ties Run Deeper Than a Post
Obama’s connection to U.S. soccer goes back further than a single tweet. During his two terms from 2009 to 2017, the USMNT reached the Round of 16 in both the 2010 and 2014 World Cups — but couldn’t push further. The women’s team, though, gave him a highlight he still references. After the USWNT won the 2015 World Cup, Obama welcomed them to the White House and famously declared that “playing like a girl means you’re a badass.” That line became a rallying cry for a generation of young athletes.
Now, with the men’s team playing a World Cup on home soil for the first time since 1994, the stakes feel different. The U.S. has never won the men’s tournament, and the pressure is on to change that narrative. Friday’s performance was a step in the right direction. Paraguay scored an own goal to gift the U.S. an early lead, and the Americans capitalized, building a 3–0 cushion before cruising to a 4–1 win.
What’s Next for the U.S. in Group Play?
The Americans won’t have long to celebrate. Their second group-stage matchup comes June 19 in Seattle against Australia. That game will test whether the opening result was a sign of real progress or just a favorable matchup. The final group game follows June 25 back in Los Angeles against Türkiye, a side with tournament experience and a reputation for physical play.
Obama’s message may have been just a few words, but it underscores the broader attention this team is getting. A former president hyping a men’s World Cup opener on American soil isn’t something that happens every cycle. If the USMNT keeps winning, expect more high-profile support — and maybe a visit from the man himself.
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