The Herd with Colin Cowherd Colin Cowherd Podcast - Colin Cowherd & Landon Donovan react to World Cup Draw: USA Is Group D favorite
Dec 10, 2025
Colin Cowherd chats with Landon Donovan, a U.S. soccer legend and analyst, as they dive into the upcoming 2026 World Cup. They explore how American players are now more seasoned thanks to their European experiences. Landon discusses the impact of early fame and wealth on player grit. The duo also debates Christian Pulisic's relationship with coach Mauricio Pochettino and the pride he's instilled in the team. Finally, they analyze the pressures of hosting Group D and what success looks like in an expanded 48-team tournament.
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Generation With More International Grit
- The current USMNT is more battle-tested because many players regularly compete in top European leagues.
- Landon Donovan says that sustained international experience gives this generation an advantage on big stages.
Fame Can Erode Grit — But Adversity Restores It
- Early fame and big contracts can erode the gritty mentality younger players once had.
- Landon Donovan observes recent poor results forced players to refocus and regain accountability.
Demand Pride And Competition In Camp
- Establish a culture where players must earn minutes and show pride representing the national team.
- Pochettino enforces accountability by demanding availability and fight from every player, says Landon Donovan.