Alex Ovechkin has been watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup and likes what he has seen from the United States men’s national team.
Speaking to the media during his post-contract extension press conference on Monday, Ovechkin was asked for his thoughts on the USMNT’s highly anticipated Round of 16 matchup against Belgium. Given the tournament’s unpredictability so far and how well the US has played, Ovechkin gives the Americans a real shot at advancing to the quarterfinals.
“Well, you can see how many good teams out already,” Ovechkin said. “US plays unbelievable right now, and they play at home. I like their chances.”
The match has taken on even more global intrigue after FIFA’s very controversial decision to allow star American striker Folarin Balogun to play despite receiving a red card for violent conduct in the team’s Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun has three goals in the tournament, scoring his third before being sent off in the second half.
While many agree that the initial call on Balogun was harsh, the mid-tournament ruling is somewhat unprecedented and has raised complaints of corruption, especially now that US President Donald Trump is claiming responsibility for getting the ban overturned. Trump has said he personally called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of the punishment.
While the inevitable kickoff against Belgium will be a must-watch for many giant soccer fans, Ovechkin, who is one himself, will not be able to tune in. The Capitals captain has travel plans as he and his family end their vacation in Turkey and return home to Russia on Tuesday.
“No, I’m not going to watch it,” Ovechkin said. “I’m going to watch Portugal and Spain, and then that’s it. Tomorrow, we have to fly back.”
Portugal, led by soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo, is facing its toughest test yet against another tournament favorite, Spain, hours before the US hosts Belgium. Ronaldo, playing in what is likely his final World Cup at age 41, has scored three goals in four matches so far.
Ronaldo’s classic rival, 39-year-old Lionel Messi, is also still in the competition with Argentina and producing at an even higher rate, with a tournament-leading seven goals in four matches. Ovechkin, himself still a notable contributor in the twilight of his career, has a unique appreciation for what his two fellow GOATs are doing.
“Yeah, if you look at Messi and Ronaldo, those players show examples that if you’re able to continue to show the level that you have, the skill, it’s tremendous,” Ovechkin said. “We watched almost every time Messi and Ronaldo, and you can see how they played. It’s tremendous, and I’m very impressed about it.”
Ovechkin will likely be in the United States when the World Cup Final takes place on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium. He is scheduled to attend Fanatics Fest in New York City on July 18.
