USMNT Starts Strong Under Manager Mauricio Pochettino
Life for the USMNT under new manager Mauricio Pochettino is off to a promising start. The renowned Argentinian coach is currently in his first camp with the U.S. men’s national soccer team and recently celebrated a comfortable 2-0 victory over CONCACAF rival Panama in Austin on Saturday.
Midfielder Yunus Musah opened the scoring early in the second half, netting his first international goal fa cup. Texas native Ricardo Pepi sealed the win by finishing a chance in the box during the 94th minute, marking Pochettino’s debut victory with the USMNT. This win allowed the Americans to snap a four-game winless streak and a two-game losing streak against Panama, who currently sits at 37th in FIFA’s world rankings.
Pochettino’s initial starting lineup featured a blend of talent and experience official competition. The 37-year-old veteran Tim Ream was chosen to lead the defensive line and wore the captain’s armband against Panama, while Christian Pulisic, the cap leader, spearheaded the USMNT’s attacking trio alongside Josh Sargent and Brenden Aaronson. However, as the Stars and Stripes prepare to travel to Guadalajara to take on Mexico on Tuesday, they will be without several of their biggest stars, including Pulisic, who returned to their respective clubs before the international break concluded.
Why Did Pulisic and Others Leave USMNT Camp Early?
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The USMNT allowed Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Marlon Fossey, and Zack Steffen to return to their club teams after the win over Panama, a somewhat unconventional move for an international program. Pochettino explained the decision to the media, emphasizing his desire to maintain a positive relationship between the national team and the clubs of his players. “As we have said, we are always going to make decisions that are in the best interest of our players and respect the relationship we have with their clubs,” he stated bbc radio .
Pulisic has been heavily involved in football for both AC Milan and the U.S. over the past month, and he will undoubtedly benefit from some much-needed rest to maintain his strong form. Pochettino will use this opportunity to give some playing time to other players who may be on the fringes of his squad, allowing them a chance to showcase their skills against a formidable opponent in Mexico. “It’s really important for the players because I think we all want to have the opportunity to play and demonstrate quality,” Pochettino said on Monday. “It’s a little bit sad because these guys want to help and play for the team. However, when one door closes, another can open; there will be opportunities for other players to step up.”
The USMNT will face El Tri on Tuesday in Jalisco at 10:30 PM ET / 7:30 PM PT. You can catch the action on TNT, Max, or Futbol de Primera.
Related: USMNT vs Mexico Lineups and Starting 11s for Pochettino’s Second Game in Charge
After a 2-0 victory against Panama, the depleted Americans are set to face El Tri in Guadalajara. Are you excited to see how the USMNT performs against Mexico?
Tags: USMNT, Mauricio Pochettino, Christian Pulisic, Ricardo Pepi, Mexico
