Gregg Berhalter looks at his smartphone and announces "Showtime". "Are you ready?" asks the coach of the American national soccer team. "It says POTUS," he says, looking at the incoming call. And POTUS stands for: President of the United States.

So US President Joe Biden is on the line. "Coach, bring me, I'm ready to play," Biden, who has just turned 80, opens the conversation in a good mood. Berhalter turns it up loud so everyone can hear - resulting in Biden's request for action causing great amusement among players and coaches alike.

"I know guys you're the underdogs," Biden continues, "but you have some of the best players in the world on your team and you represent this country. I know you're going to give your all. So go out there and shock them Everyone". The whole country will cheer for them.

For the Americans, the World Cup starts on Monday (today) with the game against Wales. On Friday, former Germany legionnaire Berhalter and his team will meet England. The last group opponent on Tuesday next week is Iran.