Due to this game being outside of a FIFA window for international games, USMNT players from most leagues across the world haven’t been released by their clubs to play. That is the same for Venezuela, with most of their stars for South America’s surprise package in 2026 World Cup qualifying unavailable for this one.

The United States Men's National Team is gearing up for two international friendlies against Venezuela and Costa Rica. These games represent head coach Mauricio Pochettino's third cycle in charge of the USMNT;