Alexi Lalas, a FOX Sports soccer analyst, has predicted the starting lineup for the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the tournament approximately 100 days away from the article's publication date of March 4, 2026. Lalas aims to foresee the selections of USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino, acknowledging the difficulty in predicting Pochettino's strategies but noting a growing understanding of his approach. Lalas's projected starting XI for the 2026 FIFA World Cup places Matt Freese as the goalkeeper. While Freese may not be considered a world-class talent, Lalas suggests he possesses the consistency and confidence that Pochettino values. The defensive formation is predicted to be a three-man backline, comprising Chris Richards, Tim Ream, and Miles Robinson. Lalas posits that this three-man defense, complemented by two wingbacks, could optimally leverage the team's available talent, offering enhanced defensive coverage and greater attacking freedom for the wingbacks. He further highlights that Richards and Ream are anticipated to be starting center-backs, with Richards having been recognized as the 2025 U.S. Male Soccer Player of the Year. In the midfield, Sergino Dest and Antonee Robinson are projected as wingbacks, with Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie occupying central midfield roles. McKennie, a seasoned player from the 2022 World Cup, is described as an effective box-to-box midfielder, while Adams is expected to fulfill a more defensive role. Lalas indicates that McKennie will likely have significant freedom to roam and interchange positions with the forwards. Dest and Antonee Robinson are envisioned playing higher up the field than in previous setups, with Dest on the right and Antonee Robinson on the left. The article also underscores the importance of Antonee "Jedi" Robinson's fitness, given his recent injury struggles. The forward line is predicted to feature Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Malik Tillman. Pulisic is positioned on the left, with the flexibility to operate across the attacking front, while Tillman is seen as a central figure capable of interchanging with McKennie. Balogun is designated as the sole striker, appearing to be Pochettino's preferred choice due to his recent strong performances. Lalas's prediction also suggests a 3-4-2-1 formation for the team. The article also acknowledges the ongoing debate surrounding Pochettino's preferred defensive strategy, noting his past use of both three-man and four-man backlines.