Mauricio Pochettino Wins First Game as USA Coach with 2-0 Victory Over Panama

Mauricio Pochettino marked his debut as the coach of the U.S. men's national team with a 2-0 victory over Panama in a friendly match held at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, on Saturday night. This win ended the USMNT‘s four-game winless streak and was their first multi-goal game since June 23.

The match saw significant contributions from key players, with Yunus Musah scoring his first goal for the USMNT in the 49th minute. Musah, typically a midfielder, was deployed in a more advanced role, almost as a right wingback, which paid off when he scored off an assist from Christian Pulisic. The goal was the result of a well-coordinated sequence involving Antonee Robinson, Pulisic, and Brenden Aaronson.

Ricardo Pepi added an insurance goal deep in second-half stoppage time, securing the 2-0 win. The goal was set up by substitutes Malik Tillman and Haji Wright, with Pepi skillfully sliding the ball past the Panamanian goalkeeper.

Goalkeeper Matt Turner also had a standout performance, making crucial saves, including a double save in the 52nd minute to preserve the lead. Turner’s performance was particularly notable given his struggles to secure consistent playing time with his club, Crystal Palace.

Pochettino’s tactical changes and emphasis on player confidence were evident throughout the game. He utilized a 4-2-3-1 formation and gave young players like Aidan Morris and Gianluca Busio opportunities to prove themselves. The team’s attitude and swagger under Pochettino’s guidance were noticeable, with players expressing their appreciation for the coach’s confidence in them.

The victory is a positive start for Pochettino, who was appointed to succeed Gregg Berhalter after the USMNT’s early exit from the Copa America in July. Pochettino’s contract extends through the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. The team’s next challenge will be a friendly against Mexico in Guadalajara on Tuesday).