Recent reports suggest the USMNT found real fluency in a 3-4-2-1 shape in the win over Senegal, but the same game also reinforced where the risk sits. The structure can free the wide players and get more bodies close to the striker, yet it asks for sharp spacing behind the ball and calm distribution from the goalkeeper.
That is why the biggest calls may come in the back line and at the base of midfield.
Against Germany, hesitation is punished quickly. That makes this less about experimentation and more about finding trust.
There is also a live debate at centre-forward.
The shape of the front line matters defensively too. A striker who can press the first pass cleanly eases pressure on a back three or back five. That may weigh heavily in Pochettino’s thinking.
Julian Nagelsmann’s side appear to arrive in stronger rhythm. Reports say Germany followed a convincing win over Finland with another reminder of their depth in attacking areas, with options such as Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sane and Denis Undav giving them variety between the lines and in transition.
That is why this feels open. The United States should create chances, but Germany may carry the cleaner attacking edge. The next storyline is obvious: whether Pochettino leaves Chicago with a settled defence, or with one more problem to solve before Paraguay.