IRVINE, Calif — Alex Zendejas has spent the better part of a month living a dream while waiting for a chance to make it real.
The United States men’s national team winger walks through the team hotel in Irvine and onto the training fields each morning knowing he is part of the biggest tournament in his sport’s history. Yet through two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 28-year-old has been forced into one of soccer’s most difficult jobs: watching.
For a player who starts every week for Liga MX giant Club América and thrives under pressure in front of packed stadiums, patience has become the assignment.
Now, his opportunity may finally be arriving.
With Team USA already securing first place in Group D after victories over Paraguay and Australia, head coach Mauricio Pochettino faces a fascinating dilemma heading into Thursday night’s group-stage finale against Turkey in Los Angeles.
The Americans are rolling. They have six points, a plus-five goal differential and a ticket punched to the Round of 32. But success creates new problems. Four starters are carrying yellow cards. Another booking would leave them suspended for the knockout match in Santa Clara, Calif., on July 1. Then there is the matter of Christian Pulisic’s lingering left calf issue and the broader question every World Cup contender eventually faces: How much do you risk when the real games are still ahead?
The logical answer may be rotation. Lots of it.
And if Pochettino chooses preservation over continuity, Zendejas could be one of the biggest beneficiaries.
“I’ve been training hard. Been waiting for the opportunity,” Zendejas said Monday. “I’m sure it’ll come. That’s obviously a coach’s decision and something I’ve gotta respect.”
There was no frustration in his voice. No public campaign for minutes. Just patience and a smile that showed he’s happy to be a part of this team.
“I’m working hard, having fun, really enjoying this dream that I’m living right now,” he added. “I couldn’t ask for more. I’m happy to be with the guys.”
That attitude has become a defining characteristic of this American squad. Players talk constantly about the atmosphere inside camp, and Zendejas painted a picture of a group that has managed to stay loose without losing its edge.
“The vibes are high,” he said. “The team is having fun. Training’s intense but in a good way. We’re competing with each other.”
The winger even laughed about the growing attention surrounding the team, noting that supporters from Mexico and Club América have been following the Americans closely in hopes of seeing him get on the field.
“Hopefully they keep watching,” he said.
If Thursday unfolds the way many expect, they finally may get their wish.
For Zendejas, the wait has been long enough. The World Cup stage is set. The stakes are lower than they have been all month. And for one of the most accomplished players still searching for his first tournament minutes, the door appears to be cracking open.
All that remains is for Pochettino to turn the handle and let him walk through it.