Stu Holden on the 2026 World Cup: USMNT's Chances, Messi & Ronaldo, and Bold Predictions

2026 World Cup Excitement

• 🤩 Stu Holden expresses immense excitement for the 2026 World Cup, calling it the biggest sporting event on the planet and something he's been anticipating for 8 years.
• 🌍 The tournament will be hosted across North America (US, Canada, Mexico) and is expected to surpass the 1994 World Cup in attendance.
• 🗓️ With an expanded format featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, it will be the first time three countries host the event.

Stars and Storylines

• 🌟 The presence of legends like Messi and Ronaldo is a major storyline, with Holden eager to see their roles and if Messi can win another World Cup.
• 🇺🇸 For the USMNT, Christian Pulisic is identified as the player with the most to prove, carrying significant pressure as the team's star.
• 🎯 Holden believes a realistic expectation for the USMNT is to reach the quarterfinals, with a semi-final appearance being extraordinary.

Global Soccer Perspectives

• ⚽ Holden argues that the US is already a soccer nation due to its rich history and high youth participation, dispelling the notion that they need to win a trophy to be validated.
• 🇲🇽 Mexico is considered the bigger threat between them and Canada due to their talent pool and strong coaching.
• 🇩🇪 Germany is named the most overrated national team heading into 2026, with Holden doubting their ability to perform impressively despite historical hype.
• 🇳🇱 The Netherlands is highlighted as a wildcard team that could shock the world, given their talented generation and past close calls.

Tournament Format and Predictions

• ⚡ Holden proposes eliminating extra time and going straight to penalties from the knockout stages (up to semi-finals) to manage player fatigue.
• 🤖 He believes VAR has been additive to the game, despite historical sentimentality, by reducing controversial refereeing decisions.
• 🏆 Spain is predicted to lift the trophy, while Brazil is tipped to choke under pressure.
• 🇪🇸 Holden considers Lionel Messi the greatest player ever and would love to interview him after the final, calling it a career highlight.
• ⚽ Must-watch matches include USMNT games, any match featuring Messi or Ronaldo, and games involving Spain.