Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app.CHICAGO — The U.S. men’s national team had its pre-World Cup momentum slowed by Germany in a send-off friendly Saturday here at a sold-out Soldier Field.On a sunny Saturday afternoon in the Windy City, with World Cup buzz building and 63,636 fans in attendance, the U.S. recovered from an early setback, and matched Germany for portions of the 90 minutes, but ultimately lost 2-1.Antonee Robinson’s blinding volley canceled out an early German goal. But Leroy Sané’s second-half strike gave the visitors a deserved victory, and extended a yearslong USMNT losing streak against European foes.The U.S. will enter the 2026 World Cup having lost nine straight games to teams from Europe, dating back to its 3-1 loss to the Netherlands in the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup. It has not beaten a top-10 team from the continent since 2015.Saturday’s defeat, in that context, was yet another reminder of the likely size of the task facing the USMNT this summer if it wants to make history with a deep run on home soil.Here’s a closer look at the last performance before the home World Cup begins:Christian Pulisic turned in another fine performance for the USMNT vs. Germany (Jamie Squire / Getty Images)Pulisic rounding into formChristian Pulisic got sick of answering questions about his scoring drought for club (December) and country (2024). After a goal and assist against Senegal in last weekend’s 3-2 win, Pulisic continued his fine form against Germany.He may not have registered a goal contribution, but Pulisic played 62 minutes and was a menace any time he got Germany center back Jonathan Tah in open space. He routinely pressured the defense in transition while carrying the ball forward, while his off-ball movement was decisive and dangerous, even when teammates didn’t find him. It was his pressure that created the corner for Robinson’s golazo.