Mauricio Pochettino’s inaugural match as head coach of the United States Men’s National Team ended in a 1-1 draw against New Zealand, providing a sobering introduction to the scale of the task ahead for the former Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain manager. The friendly, played on Tuesday in Cincinnati, showcased both the potential and the problems facing the USMNT as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, which they will co-host with Mexico and Canada.
From the outset, it was clear that Pochettino’s new role would not be without its difficulties. The USMNT, ranked significantly higher than their 94th-position opponents, struggled to assert dominance despite controlling large portions of the game. The match against the Kiwis, who were seen as an opportunity to build momentum, instead highlighted the ongoing issues that have plagued the American team.
Christian Pulisic, who is expected to be a central figure under Pochettino, appeared to deliver the breakthrough the team needed with a goal in the 69th minute. The captain’s precise finish seemed to have set the stage for a positive start to Pochettino’s tenure. However, a defensive lapse in the dying moments of the game allowed Ben Waine to score an equalizer, leaving the final score at 1-1 and underscoring the defensive vulnerabilities that Pochettino will need to address.
This draw continues a troubling trend for the USMNT, who have now managed only one win in their last seven home games. The team’s form has been under scrutiny following a disappointing performance in the Copa America, where they failed to advance past the group stage. Adding to the discontent was a recent defeat to Canada, marking their first home loss since 1957.
Pochettino, appointed as head coach just before the match, replaces Gregg Berhalter, who was dismissed after a lackluster Copa America campaign. The timing of Pochettino’s appointment meant that interim coach Mikey Varas was left to experiment with his lineup, which included starting Pulisic on the bench and deploying an attacking trio of Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, and Haji Wright.
While the tactical changes were meant to offer new dynamics, the team’s performance was marked by a lack of fluidity and creativity. Despite having significant possession, the USMNT failed to convert opportunities into goals. Pepi’s disallowed goal in the 20th minute, due to a foul in the build-up, was a prime example of the team’s struggles in front of the net. Marlon Fossey, making his debut for the team, and Aidan Morris provided some promising moments, but overall, the team’s offensive efforts were stifled by a resolute New Zealand defense.
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Pulisic’s introduction in the second half was a much-needed spark, and his goal demonstrated his crucial role within the team. However, the defensive mishap that led to Waine’s goal revealed persistent issues that Pochettino will need to address in the coming months. The equalizer was a stark reminder of the importance of defensive solidity and the need for improved game management.
Looking forward, Pochettino’s next challenges will come in the form of friendlies against Panama and Mexico, scheduled for October. These matches will be critical in assessing the team’s progress and Pochettino’s impact on their performance. Pulisic, reflecting on the draw, expressed cautious optimism about the future. He highlighted the need for a cultural shift within the team, emphasizing a desire for a new mindset and approach under Pochettino’s guidance.
As the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Pulisic and his teammates are hopeful that Pochettino’s leadership will bring about the necessary changes to enhance their competitiveness. The captain’s focus on improving the team’s mentality and fostering a culture of resilience and risk-taking will be pivotal as the USMNT looks to overcome their recent struggles and build towards a successful World Cup campaign.
In summary, Pochettino’s debut with the USMNT has brought to light both the team’s potential and the pressing challenges they face. The draw against New Zealand serves as a reminder of the work ahead and the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the team’s deficiencies. With Pochettino at the helm, there is hope that the USMNT will find the necessary improvements and regain their competitive edge as they approach the 2026 World Cup.
