United States men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino has made clear that, with Friday's World Cup opener against Paraguay on the horizon, the moment for rousing team talks has long passed.

Speaking ahead of the match, Pochettino indicated that his squad needs no further inspiration — the preparation has been done, and the players are focused and ready to compete on the biggest stage of all.

"It's too late" for motivational speeches, Pochettino said, signalling confidence in his group's mental and physical readiness as the United States prepare to host the tournament.

The match against Paraguay represents the start of what the United States hope will be a memorable run in front of their home fans. Pochettino has spent considerable time building this squad, and Friday's game will offer the first real test of that work under World Cup pressure.