Mauricio Pochettino’s reign as the USMNT manager got off to a strong start with a 2-0 win against Panama in a friendly match in Austin. This game served as a rematch following the USA’s previous Copa America defeat to Panama, which led to their group-stage elimination and the subsequent departure of Gregg Berhalter.
The U.S. took the lead in the 49th minute when Yunus Musah converted a brilliant pass from his club teammate Christian Pulisic, side-footing the ball into the net against Panama. The USMNT faced some tense moments, as goalkeeper Matt Turner made a spectacular double save just three minutes after Musah’s goal. Panama forward José Fajardo then wasted a golden opportunity in the 87th minute, sending his shot wide. However, substitute Ricardo Pepi sealed the victory for the U.S. with a composed finish from Haji Wright’s assist four minutes into stoppage time.
The first goal of the Mauricio Pochettino era belongs to Yunus Musah!
His first for the #USMNT!! pic.twitter.com/bMd6ANOJhf
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) October 13, 2024
“I think it was a very professional performance and I think we are happy because I think all the goals that we said before the game, I think that we got and I think it’s an important victory,” Pochettino said after the game. “And to start that period with the victory always is very helpful.”
“Yes, so happy. Happy because I see the staff and the players made a fantastic show and of course with the help of the fans here in Austin,” he added.
Pochettino, appointed last month to succeed Gregg Berhalter, remarked on how “amazing” it was to see the U.S. players absorb the new tactics so quickly, especially considering they had only been together for a few days. The former PSG manager also thanked the nearly full crowd of over 20,000 at Q2 Stadium and acknowledged a banner featuring his face displayed behind one of the goals.
“It was a massive shock for me to see my face behind the goal, like you say, and a different picture,” he said. “I think I am so happy; very good connection with the fans.”
This win marked just the fourth for the USMNT this year and their first multi-goal match since June 23. The Americans are now set to travel to Mexico for a friendly against their long-time rivals, El Tri, in Guadalajara on Tuesday night. Pochettino’s first competitive match as head coach will take place next month, although the opponent and venue for the Nations League quarterfinal have yet to be announced.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
