INGLEWOOD, California – Following the U.S. men`s national team`s 1-0 defeat to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal, coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed that the performance did not accurately reflect the team`s true capabilities and potential, including that of star player Christian Pulisic.
The USMNT, previous three-time CNL champions, lost after a first half Pochettino described as `painful` to watch. The team, despite dominating possession and taking 12 shots, only managed 0.68 expected goals against a defensively focused Panama team. Pulisic`s performance was particularly subdued, with only one shot during the game. However, despite his criticism, Pochettino remains confident in Pulisic`s abilities.
Regarding Pulisic, Pochettino noted, `It`s not an excuse, but he`s been under significant pressure recently.` He added, `This isn`t the Christian we know he can be; he`s capable of much more. Sometimes these competitions come at different times for players, affecting team performance. But for the World Cup, our main goal, I have no doubt Christian will be ready and at his best for us.`
Pochettino clarified that the Panama game was not indicative of his desired playing style and team identity.
`We expect more from everyone, from all players. Our expectations are very high,` he stated. `That game didn`t represent who we are as a team, individual players, coaches, or the USMNT. Things like this can happen, but we need to improve.`
The coach also pointed to a lack of team chemistry as a factor in Thursday`s struggles. Injuries led to a modified lineup, with Yunus Musah and Timothy Weah in unfamiliar wingback roles, and Tanner Tessman making a rare start in midfield alongside Tyler Adams. Josh Sargent led the attack in the absence of Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi.
`I didn`t see that chemistry,` Pochettino admitted. `That worried me, and it might be my fault in player selection. We need to try different combinations and see if things improve.`
Looking ahead to the match against Canada, Pochettino hinted at lineup changes, indicating planned rotation even before the Panama game. Canada will present a different tactical challenge compared to Panama, who primarily defended and scored their single goal in the 94th minute.
Pochettino acknowledged the team`s imperfect performance against Panama but highlighted some positive aspects.
`We deserved to win against Panama,` he asserted. `Analyzing the game, they scored with their only shot on target in 94 minutes, but that`s football. We must accept it and be critical. To reach this level and concede a goal while failing to score more is a problem of scoring. The discipline and game plan were there, and the players tried hard. They ran and put in effort, but we need to be more aggressive and competitive.`
Pochettino is focused on building the team`s competitive edge, recognizing that a lack of intensity, especially in the first half, contributed to the Panama loss. The team`s response against Canada remains uncertain.
`It`s a question mark,` Pochettino said. `We want consistent focus, concentration, and mental strength in every competition, official or not. Tomorrow`s game against Canada is crucial to see our reaction. We need to show character. It`s not just about the result, but about improving our performance.`
Dominic Ashworth