The United States men’s national team put on a convincing performance in a friendly match against Panama over the weekend and delivered a 2-0 win. The game, which snapped a four-game winless streak for USMNT, marked a debut for new head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
In the first half, the U.S. players were still obviously finding their footing in a new system and were unable to score despite some great chances. The second half was much better, with star forward Christian Pulisic delivering a cross to his AC Milan teammate Yunus Musah, who kept his calm in the box and got the ball into the net.
Panama made a charge to score an equalizer, but goalie Matt Turner was at the top of his game, making some admirable saves down the stretch. Substitute Ricardo Pepi would go on to score in added time to give USMNT a two-goal victory.
Pochettino’s first win provided added optimism to USMNT fans, who chanted his name after the Argentinean walked to the pitch to greet them.
“It was amazing,” Pochettino said of the chants. “Thank you, fans. They were amazing. Of course, it was a massive shock for me to see my face behind the goal! I am so happy. I have a very good connection with the fans and it’s important to translate this connection with those fans. Players need to feel the support. I’m so happy, so happy.”
Pochettino will have an opportunity to excite the U.S. soccer fans further on Tuesday night when USMNT faces Mexico in a friendly match.
