It was not the end result Mauricio Pochettino or the United States males’s nationwide group (USMNT) wished. On Saturday, the People suffered a disappointing house defeat to South Korea, sparking contemporary criticism lower than a yr earlier than the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on U.S. soil.
The USMNT struggled badly within the first half, conceding twice earlier than halftime. Son Heung-Min, South Korea’s international celebrity, opened the scoring within the 18th minute after which supplied the help for Lee Dong-gyeong’s second objective within the forty third minute.
Though america improved after the break and created alternatives to get again into the match, they lacked the of entirety. For Pochettino, the shortage of scientific play was the decisive issue.
“I feel we have been higher than South Korea, however if you’re not scientific, it turns into difficult. Placing the end result apart, I noticed many constructive issues,” the Argentine coach stated in his post-match press convention.
Pochettino’s name for persistence and help
Pochettino careworn that the group remains to be adjusting, with a number of compelled adjustments within the roster resulting from accidents and different circumstances. He acknowledged that the method is difficult however urged each gamers and followers to stay optimistic.
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“Too many issues are taking place with our roster… we’ve to be actually constructive… we’ve to imagine,” he insisted.
The coach additionally made a direct attraction to the American public, asking followers to point out up and help the nationwide group as they put together for the most important event in U.S. soccer historical past.
What’s subsequent for the USMNT
The defeat leaves Pochettino’s file at 10 wins and seven losses in 17 matches, with no attracts to date in his tenure. Whereas his win proportion is respectable, the inconsistencies—significantly towards stronger worldwide opponents—have raised questions on whether or not the group will likely be prepared for the highlight of 2026.
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The USMNT could have a fast probability to bounce again on Tuesday, once they face Japan at Decrease.com Subject in Columbus, Ohio. That match will present one other check towards a top-tier Asian opponent and a chance for the People to point out enchancment.
