U.S. Soccer's Data Scientists Aim to Lift USMNT to World Cup Glory

Behind the scenes, a team of analysts provides crucial support to the U.S. men's national team as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:26am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a USMNT soccer match, with the action broken down into sharp, geometric shapes and planes of color, capturing the dynamic movement and energy of the game.U.S. Soccer's data-driven approach aims to give the USMNT a tactical edge at the 2026 World Cup.San Diego Today

While the players take the field and the coaches make the decisions, U.S. Soccer's team of data analysts and performance specialists work tirelessly behind the scenes to give the USMNT an edge at the upcoming World Cup. From using drones to film training sessions to creating detailed opposition scouting reports, this group of unsung heroes is determined to ensure the U.S. is the most prepared team heading into the tournament.

Why it matters

The 2026 World Cup represents a historic opportunity for the USMNT to shine on home soil. With the support of U.S. Soccer's data-driven approach, the team hopes to exceed expectations and make a deep run in the tournament, potentially lifting the trophy for the first time. The analysts' work in areas like talent identification, player development, and tactical preparation could be the difference-maker in the U.S. achieving soccer glory.

The details

U.S. Soccer's director of sporting analytics, Natasha Patel, oversees a team that uses drones to film training sessions, creates detailed opposition scouting reports, and produces motivational hype videos for the players. Meanwhile, director of data analytics Sam Gregory and his staff analyze everything from the team's on-field performance to physical data, providing crucial insights to coach Mauricio Pochettino and his staff. This collaborative effort between the technical and analytical teams aims to leave no stone unturned in the USMNT's preparation for the World Cup.

  • The USMNT played 18 matches in all competitions in 2025.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 12 in the United States.

The players

Natasha Patel

The director of sporting analytics at U.S. Soccer, overseeing a team that provides crucial support to the USMNT.

Sam Gregory

The director of data analytics at U.S. Soccer, responsible for analyzing the team's performance data and providing insights to the coaching staff.

Mauricio Pochettino

The manager of the U.S. men's national team, who will lead the team at the 2026 World Cup.

Tyler Heaps

The former director of sporting analytics at U.S. Soccer, now the sporting director of San Diego FC.

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What they’re saying

“What a lot of fans don't see is there's so many things and people going on behind the scenes. Many different things going on in the background.”

— Tyler Heaps, Sporting Director, San Diego FC

“The goal is really to be that support engine. I think if we've done our job well, we'll be the most prepared team going into this World Cup.”

— Sam Gregory, Director of Data Analytics, U.S. Soccer

What’s next

The USMNT will continue their World Cup preparations, with the analysts and data scientists working closely with the coaching staff to fine-tune the team's tactics, identify strengths and weaknesses of opponents, and ensure the players are physically and mentally ready for the tournament.

The takeaway

U.S. Soccer's investment in data analytics and performance specialists is a testament to the federation's commitment to leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of World Cup glory. This collaborative approach between the technical and analytical teams could be the key to the USMNT exceeding expectations and making a deep run in the 2026 tournament.