Pochettino also discussed how his firm stance has impacted the USMNT players.

Mauricio Pochettino learned his first ever World Cup group opponents as a coach on Friday when the World Cup draw takes center stage in Washington, D.C. and he will be very happy with it.

The USMNT will play Australia and Paraguay in Group D, as well as third opponent from Europe that will be determined in March

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D odds list the Americans as heavy favorites to win their group and advance to the Round of 32.

Pochettino was Tottenham's boss from 2014-2019 and led Spurs to one of the most successful spells in club history. Pochettino didn't win any trophies during his time in North London, but Tottenham reached a Champions League final and the team's domestic second-place finish in 2017 was its first in 50 years.

Jesse Marsch will lead Canada at the 2026 World Cup that will be played on their home soil. A lot will depend on who will qualify in the last spot of the group. If Italy do, things will be much more difficult for Canada.

Led by manager Mauricio Pochettino, the USMNT will open the tournament against Paraguay in Los Angeles on June 12, before facing Australia on June 19 in Seattle. After their quick foray to the Pacific Northwest, they will return to Los Angeles to face one of Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo from the UEFA Playoff Path.

FIFA World Cup Fever is already taking hold of the country after Friday night's draw. US Men's National Team legend, FOX Sports Analyst and weather enthusiast Alexi Lalas joined FOX Weather's Nick Kosir to break down which teams will get an edge from the hot weather.