USMNT Prepares for Ecuador in Austin Oct. 10

AUSTIN, Texas — The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to face Ecuador on October 10 at Q2 Stadium, kicking off at 8:30 p.m. ET. This friendly comes as part of the team’s preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, where both teams have already qualified.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who began his tenure with the USMNT last October, aims to build on recent success after a victory against Japan last month. The match against Ecuador marks Pochettino’s return to Q2 Stadium, where the USMNT last won 2-0 against Panama.

The USMNT currently boasts an undefeated home record of 6-0-0 at Q2 Stadium, with all wins resulting in shutouts. The stadium, opened in 2021, has seen average attendance of over 18,000 fans, demonstrating strong local support.

Veteran center back Tim Ream, who celebrated his 38th birthday this week, highlighted the team’s intense training approach under Pochettino. Ream emphasized a collective focus, stating, “Every touch, every pass, every piece of communication is the most important thing.”

Alongside Ream, players like Cristian Roldan and Christian Pulisic are expected to play crucial roles. Pulisic, currently the leading scorer in Serie A, has scored six goals in seven matches for AC Milan, showcasing his leadership and attacking prowess.

Ecuador, ranked 24th by FIFA, is no slouch, having recently qualified for the 2026 World Cup after a strong campaign, including a shocking victory over Argentina. The team will be without midfielder Moisés Caicedo, but center back Willian Pacho will be in action.

“We need to avoid falling behind against a defensively organized team like Ecuador,” Pochettino explained. “Breaking their defense will be our key challenge.”

This match not only serves as a preparation for the World Cup but is also an opportunity for the USMNT to refine strategies and identify starting roles for upcoming games.

With October’s international window crucial for both teams, fans can tune in to watch the game on TNT and truTV for English commentary, or Universo for Spanish. Pregame coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET.