EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino spoke after a 2-1 friendly defeat to Turkiye, the first of two matches before the Gold Cup. Despite the loss, he expressed relief that the discussion could focus purely on football action, unlike previous matches where competitiveness was the main issue.
Pochettino emphasized the positive aspect of the game, highlighting that his tactical approach—an aggressive press and high defensive line—was clearly visible. This strategy, a hallmark of his teams, allowed the USMNT to control possession and outshoot their opponents 13 to 11. This tactical display was particularly noteworthy given the team`s lack of experience, with only six players having 30 or more international appearances.
Acknowledging the squad`s varied levels of fitness and international experience, Pochettino admitted that building team chemistry presented challenges, especially while introducing new tactical concepts. However, he praised the players` receptiveness to the game plan, noting how specific instructions for players like Diego Luna, Malik Tillman, Luca de la Torre, Johnny Cardoso, Jack McGlynn, Max Arfsten, and Alex factored into offensive opportunities and maintaining control.
Veteran midfielder Tyler Adams, who came on in the second half, confirmed that a key focus during their week together had been refining the defensive line`s spacing and movements. He noted improvements in defending the area and avoiding goals conceded through structural issues, although he admitted the backline was “a little bit loose at times,” indicating ongoing work.
The goals conceded highlighted areas needing refinement, stemming from individual errors, such as Johnny Cardoso`s mistake leading to Turkiye`s equalizer. While Pochettino deemed this type of error normal, it pointed to a need for greater precision across the pitch. Turkiye`s coach Vincenzo Montella revealed they adjusted their pressing strategy early on to exploit the USMNT`s high line, leading to increased shots after the initial minutes. Despite this, Pochettino maintained it was too early to judge the suitability of the high line for this inexperienced group, stressing the importance of these preparatory matches for gaining experience ahead of the Gold Cup.
The USMNT`s attack, led by Patrick Agyemang in this match, also needs work. Despite taking more shots, only three were on target, and they lost the expected goals battle. The key question now is whether the team can iron out these issues over the next month, regardless of their success in the Gold Cup.
Adams concluded by stating the team`s high standards. He explained that friendlies provide a necessary environment to test tactics and take risks, preparing the players to execute these strategies effectively when facing competitive opposition.
