Pochettino and Pulisic concur that USMNT is ‘close’ to reaching its peak potential.
ATLANTA – Following his team’s 2-0 loss to Portugal, United States coach Mauricio Pochettino remarked that his squad is “not far away” from overcoming a team of that caliber, emphasizing that only “small details” require refinement.
The U.S. was defeated by Portugal, which is currently ranked fifth in the FIFA world rankings, with goals scored by Francisco Trincão in the 37th minute and João Félix in the 59th, both assisted by Bruno Fernandes. The first goal resulted from a midfield turnover, where Fernandes seized a through ball, and when U.S. defender Chris Richards approached him, he executed a clever backheel to an advancing Trincão.
The second goal originated from a set piece, where a defensive error allowed Fernandes’ delivery to be controlled by Félix, who struck from 21 yards out.
“I believe we competed very well,” stated Pochettino. “I was pleased with the first half and the first 20 minutes or 15 minutes of the second half. In terms of details, in the small details, I think we lost the match.”
This result marked the second defeat of the March window, with the U.S. having previously lost to Belgium 5-2 three days prior. Nevertheless, Pochettino viewed the camp as a success.
“I consider this camp to be very positive,” he said. “I believe it marks the conclusion of our cycle…for preparation for the World Cup. I think this is the end because the next roster will be the one involved. There are many aspects we need to evaluate in the upcoming weeks.”
“Yes, I feel more optimistic now than before because witnessing the team compete shows we are not far off. It’s merely details that we need to refine.”
The U.S., with Christian Pulisic positioned as a central striker, had opportunities to score but failed to capitalize. Timothy Weah delivered a promising cross in the 22nd minute, but Pulisic could not make effective contact. The AC Milan forward then shot wide in the 36th minute following solid play from Alex Freeman.
Pulisic also appeared frustrated on the pitch, receiving a booking in the third minute of first-half stoppage time for a late challenge. This match marked the eighth consecutive game in which Pulisic did not score for the U.S., but Pochettino expressed no concern.
“Yes, he feels frustrated, but that is what we desire, what we expect,” Pochettino commented regarding Pulisic. “He was battling. He was engaged in the phases where we demand more, and with the ball, he will score because he possesses quality. I am confident that he will return to his club, and once he scores, he will score again.”
Pulisic concurred with his coach about the team’s trajectory and expressed confidence that goals — he has not scored for club or country in 2026 — will come.
“I feel like we are much closer than people realize. We applied significant pressure on [Belgium and Portugal] in the first half of both matches,” Pulisic stated after the game. “We were able to create opportunities, and if I convert those chances, which I know I will, then the outcomes will be different. There were just a few moments where a lack of concentration led to goals against us, but I feel we are right in the game.”
“Physically, I feel really good, very sharp, and I am doing many positive things. I need to assist my team in creating assists, scoring goals, and generating chances. Naturally, when I don’t achieve that, it is frustrating, but I believe I am close, and I sense good things are on the horizon.”
The next gathering for the USMNT will occur after the final roster is revealed. Pochettino mentioned he is still evaluating over 35 players to fill the 26 positions.
“I think now they understand that it will be a competition,” Pochettino said regarding the final weeks leading up to the roster announcement on May 26. “They know we will be observing every single week, every single game, and we will assess one year and a half or more, and then we will make our decision.”
“I believe those who make the roster will be pleased, while those who do not will be disappointed, but I think we do not need to elaborate too much.”
The U.S. will next face Senegal in Charlotte on May 31, followed by a final World Cup preparation match against Germany on June 6 in Chicago.
“It’s crucial for us. It’s about learning,” Pochettino remarked regarding facing quality opponents. “I think we should play more matches…like this because even if it is challenging, it is the only way to improve. It is the only way to learn. It is the only way to understand how these top players and teams compete.”
Pochettino will guide the U.S. into Group D play at the World Cup, starting with their opener against Paraguay on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
