Losing to Panama again in a competitive match is concerning for the United States men’s national team, but it doesn’t mean their 2026 World Cup is doomed. Even in preparation for the World Cup, playing against either Mexico or Canada in the Nations League third-place game is a significant opportunity, much bigger than a typical third-place match.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino admitted there’s a lot of work to do, pointing out issues like not pressing enough, taking long shots, and lacking intensity. He summed it up by saying, “This is everyone’s responsibility, and we need to find a way to compete better, that’s all.”
The team needs to improve, and they’ll have a chance this Sunday to show progress. If not, changes to the squad might be coming before the Gold Cup. Pochettino has talked about trusting the team and players, mentioning that some players like Patrick Ageymang and Jack McGlynn earned his trust during the January camp, while others still need to prove themselves.
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Leading up to the World Cup, Pochettino needs to understand his squad’s strengths and weaknesses. Losses like this one to Panama can be more informative about what needs fixing than wins. Here are reasons why there’s still plenty of hope for the USMNT:
The Team is Different with Key Players Back
Besides Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson is arguably the USMNT’s second most crucial player. This Fulham player defends well, joins the attack, and moves into midfield when needed. Few fullbacks globally can do what Robinson does. His absence was felt on the left side, where Joe Scally played as a hybrid center back and left back. While there are concerns about Robinson’s backup, even the usual backup left back, Sergino Dest (who usually plays right back), wasn’t available in this camp. Having both Robinson and Dest makes a big difference. Their absence was noticeable in this game.
The USMNT would like more depth, but that takes time. If core players are missing, it creates gaps that are hard to fill without changing the team’s system. Constantly changing things isn’t ideal for a team at the USMNT’s level. Folarin Balogun’s absence at striker was also significant. Even when he doesn’t touch the ball, his movement creates space for other attackers.
Most teams would struggle with their third-choice left back and striker in a game, but having both missing at once makes squad balance difficult.
There’s Still Time to Improve
Time is important in a few ways. While the World Cup is less than 500 days away, which might seem like a short time, it also means there are still 500 days for growth. Players can move to new teams, challenge themselves, and Pochettino can become more familiar with American soccer. He’s learned a lot since taking over in October 2024 and will continue learning before the World Cup. Players will also learn what he expects or risk being left out of the squad. Dest and other players will return, which should help the team.
If these problems continue into late 2025, then there will be more reason to worry. But for now, the USMNT has much to learn, and one great goal from a Panamanian attacker shouldn’t erase the good defensive work the team did in this match. If Sargent’s shot had gone in instead of hitting the post, the game could have been different. Perspective is important.
Competition is Key for Growth
Whether the USMNT won or lost this Panama game, they still face Canada or Mexico next. Competition is what the team makes of it. While trophies can add motivation, if the players need a trophy to be motivated under Pochettino, World Cup expectations shouldn’t be high. The USMNT is scheduling tough matches, like against Türkiye and Switzerland this summer before the Gold Cup. Teams will bring strong squads to play the USMNT, providing valuable learning experiences.
As long as they keep scheduling high-level friendlies and World Cup warm-up games, there will be plenty of challenges. The upcoming Gold Cup, being the last major competitive matches before the World Cup, might also have stronger teams than usual. While this loss is disappointing for fans, it’s better to happen now as a learning experience for the future.
