American football great believes that the American team can surprise the world in the next World Cup
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Cobi Jones, the leader of all time of the USMNT in appearances, believes that the United States can do great things in the World Cup.
Jones, 54, said that the past can serve as an indicator of what this iteration of the United States can do in the World Cup.
“They can go to the end. And I know that people would laugh at that, but when you take a look at what we did in 2002, you know that nobody expected us to get so far,” Jones told News Digital Wednesday.
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The United States goalkeeper Matt Turner shouts for fans while his teammates celebrate a goal marked by striker Christian Pulisic (10) against Bolivia during the first half of a game of the Copa América 2024 at the AT&T stadium on June 23, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (Jerome Miron/USA Today Sports)
In 2002, the United States advanced as a heavy loser to a quarterfinal match, its best modern final in a world cup.
“The way I look at it, anyone, any team can make something happen in this World Cup. That is the good thing about that.”
Jones said the team has to meet next year before the World Cup.
“Well, for me, I think the most important thing is to join as a team. I’m not too worried about the results. This is a year,” Jones said.
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The former professional football player and commentator Cobi Jones and his wife Kim Reese Pose for a photo on the red carpet during the year for the FIFA World Cup 26 event in News Studio Lot on June 11, 2025 in Los Angeles. (Jessica Alcheh/Imagn images)
“There is a lot of time to make the necessary changes that the Pochettino coach believes that it is important that this team is successful. That is his job, which is why he is paid a lot of money.
In addition to being excited about what will happen in the field, Jones said he also waits for events outside the field.
“I am also excited about everything that happens outside the field. The events that will be close … all the different parts that you know are going to happen around them,” said Jones.
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The former soccer player of the United States male team, Cobi Jones, speaks on March 13, 2025 in Inglewood, California, during the presentation of the new test football launch in advance of the game of the Nations League and the World Cup 2026 in the Sofi Stadium. (Gary A. Vasquez/Imagn images)
“People, you know, gather in bars, in restaurants, outdoor stadiums, everywhere. It is just a meeting of people. So, for me, it is a time at the time we are going to see different cultures that come together. That is what I am excited.”
Jones played for the 1992-2004 USMNT, and the midfielder scored 15 goals in the international game.
Connor McGahan de News contributed to this report.
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Ryan Canfield is a digital production assistant for News Digital.