AUSTIN, Texas — U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino praised his team’s “professional performance” after beating Panama 2-0 in his first game in charge.
The United States regained the lead in the 49th minute when Yunus Musah received a centering pass from teammate Christian Pulisic and left-footed it into the Panama goal.
The USMNT had to endure some tense moments. Goalkeeper Matt Turner pulled off a superb double save three minutes after Musah’s goal, and in the 87th minute a glorious chance was created for Panamanian striker José Fajardo, who pushed his goal over. Shot wide.
Substitute Ricardo Pepi made the game safe for the United States with a fine finish from Haji Wright four minutes from time.
“I think it was a very professional performance, I think we are happy because I think we got all the goals we said before the game and I think it was an important win,” Pochettino told reporters. “And it’s always very helpful to start that period with a win.
“Yes, I am very happy. I am happy to see the staff and players put on a fantastic show with the help of the fans here in Austin.”
Pochettino, who was hired to replace Gregg Berhalter last month, added that it was “amazing” how well the American players had adapted despite only spending a few days together. He said this is where he expects the U.S. team to improve, especially ahead of Tuesday’s game against rival Mexico in Guadalajara.
“I think that’s the foundation of the first step to growing and starting to get better,” he said. “Now we will have a few days to recover, observe, analyze and evaluate all the players and make the best decision for the team and players who play on Tuesday, another tough game.”
Pochettino also praised the near-capacity crowd of 20,239 at the Q2 Stadium and noted the banner behind the goal featuring his face.
He said, “Like you said, it was a big shock to me to see a photo different from my face behind the goal.” “I think I am very happy because my relationship with my fans is very good.
“It’s really important to have that connection, that connection between the team and the fans. That’s really important. Players need to feel supported.”
Pochettino deployed Moussa on the right flank, an unusual position for him, at least for an American team. For the American coach, it was all about helping Moussa’s confidence, considering he has only played 147 minutes for AC Milan this season.
“He doesn’t play much. In the last few games, I thought he was uncomfortable in that situation,” Pochettino said. “When he arrived, we talked… and tried to build his confidence, perhaps by starting him in a different position than he has started in the past. I think it was a good decision.”
“I think he’s always trying to build his confidence and feel again that he’s a player who can perform on the pitch.”
And of Moussa’s goal, Pochettino added: “It was fantastic for him, fantastic for the team. Now he is full of confidence and he might start playing and acting in a different way.” ) Try to help.”
His Milan teammate also predicted a goal.
“I told him it was my instinct to score, he was watching me,” said Pulisic, who has scored five goals in seven Serie A games this season. “He’s learning a thing or two, but honestly at that moment… it’s great to see that.”
One of the players who did not play was Weston McKennie. Pochettino said the Juventus midfielder was left out as a precaution as he was not 100 per cent fit.
“We wanted to protect him,” Pochettino said. However, there is still a chance that McKennie will play against Mexico.
Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
