USMNT edges Senegal 3-2 in Charlotte during 2026 FIFA World Cup warmup

Christian Pulisic registered a goal and an assist, while Folarin Balogun secured the match-winner to give Mauricio Pochettino a morale-boosting victory over the African powerhouse.

Photo: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The United States Men’s National Team took a definitive step forward in their penultimate preparation match before the kick-off of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Under the strategic direction of Argentine manager Mauricio Pochettino, the USMNT displayed high-intensity pressing and clinical vertical transitions to overcome a resilient Senegal side 3-2 at a packed Bank of America Stadium. The night was highlighted by the return to the scoresheet of team captain Christian Pulisic.

The North American side translated their tactical aggressiveness into an early advantage. Merely seven minutes into the first half, Sergino Dest surged into the edge of the six-yard box to finish a sharp cross from Pulisic, who had previously bypassed two defenders down the left flank to dictate the 1-0 lead. The USMNT continued to control possession, and in the 20th minute, Ricardo Pepi delivered a perfectly weighted through-ball into space. Pulisic exploited his trademark pace, rounded goalkeeper Mory Diaw, and slotted home the 2-0 cushion, ending a national team scoring drought dating back to November 2024.

Despite the domestic dominance, defensive lapses allowed the African powerhouse back into the contest. In the 43rd minute, Sadio Mane punished a structural turnover from the hosts' backline to secure a 2-1 deficit right before halftime. In the second half, Pochettino altered his formation, executing ten substitutions to manage squad rotation under the new FIFA regulations implemented by match referee Nick Walsh, who authorized up to 11 changes per side.

Senegal took advantage of the tactical restructuring, with Mane completing a brace to temporarily level the score and quiet the Charlotte crowd. However, the USMNT’s response was immediate. In the 63rd minute, Folarin Balogun capped off a fluid collective build-up, receiving the ball inside the box before unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner to seal the definitive 3-2 victory. 

Alejandro Zendejas subbed in late to provide offensive composure and protect the lead. Following the victory, the United States will conclude their pre-World Cup schedule this Saturday against Germany at Soldier Field in Chicago.