INGLEWOOD, Calif. – USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed his disappointment after Thursday`s 1-0 loss to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal. He stated that the performance did not reflect the team`s true capabilities, including that of star player Christian Pulisic.
The USMNT, usually dominant in the CNL, struggled in the first half, which Pochettino described as `painful`. Despite controlling possession and taking numerous shots, they lacked sharpness against a defensive Panama team. Pulisic, in particular, had a quiet game, taking only one shot. Pochettino acknowledged Pulisic`s recent pressures, suggesting it might have affected his performance. However, he remains confident in Pulisic`s ability to be at his best for the World Cup.
`It`s not an excuse, but a player like him is under pressure,` Pochettino said about Pulisic before the Canada match. `This isn`t the Christian we expect; he can perform much better. These competitions can come at different times for players, affecting team performance. But for the World Cup, Christian will be ready and at his peak for us.`
Pochettino emphasized that the Panama game was not representative of his desired style of play for the team.
`We expect more from everyone, from all the players. Our expectations are high,` he stated. `That game doesn`t define us as a team or individuals. We need to improve for various reasons.`
The coach also pointed to a lack of team chemistry as a factor in the loss, resulting from a lineup partly shaped by injuries. Players like Yunus Musah and Timothy Weah were in unfamiliar wingback roles, and Tanner Tessman made a rare start in midfield. Josh Sargent led the attack due to the absence of other forwards.
`I didn`t see that chemistry,` Pochettino admitted. `That worried me, and it might be my fault. We need to try different player combinations to find it.`
Looking ahead to the Canada game, Pochettino hinted at lineup changes, indicating a rotation strategy. He noted that Canada would present a different tactical challenge compared to Panama`s defensive approach. Panama`s winning goal was their only shot on target in the 94th minute.
Pochettino conceded the performance against Panama was flawed but recognized some positive aspects.
`We deserved to win against Panama,` he argued. `Analyzing the game, they scored with their only shot on target in 95 minutes. That`s football. We must accept it and be critical. The issue was scoring. The discipline and game plan were there. They tried hard, but we lacked aggression and competitiveness.`
Pochettino is prioritizing the team`s competitive edge. He acknowledged that a lack of intensity in the first half against Panama was costly. The Canada match will be a test of their response.
`It`s a question mark,` Pochettino said about their reaction. `We want consistent focus and mental strength in every competition. Tomorrow is crucial to see our reaction. We need to show character. It`s not just about the result, but improving our performance.`
How to watch
- Date: Sunday, March 23 | Time: 6 p.m. ET
- Location: SoFi Stadium — Inglewood, California
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Canada +225; Draw +230; USMNT +114
Adrian Whitmore