Mauricio Pochettino’s stint as United States boss got off to a winning start as the Stars and Stripes overcame Panama 2-0.
Saturday’s friendly in Austin represented a reunion with Panama for USA, who had lost to the central American team in this year’s Copa America.
That defeat ultimately proved crucial in paving the way for a group-stage exit, which led to Gregg Berhalter’s dismissal and, eventually, Pochettino’s arrival.
Pochettino had to wait until the 49th minute in Austin to see his team score their first goal, with Yunus Musah tucking in his first USA goal from Christian Pulisic’s delivery.
Matt Turner pulled off some impressive stops to keep USA ahead, while Puma Rodriguez and Jose Fajardo both saw good chances pass them by.
Deep in second-half stoppage time, USA substitute Pepi settled the contest, sweeping home after a fine pass from Haji Wright.
5 – Austin is the third city in which the #USMNT has recorded shutout wins in five straight matches (Columbus, OH, Foxborough, MA) and the first in which they did so in their first five matches in that city. Fortress. pic.twitter.com/glT8DgDVYL
— OptaJack (@OptaJack) October 13, 2024
Data Debrief: Pochettino gets the ball rolling
Pochettino is renowned for front-foot, attacking football, and there was plenty of evidence of the shackles coming off in the first half, with seven different USA players involved in at least one shot, either by having an attempt themselves or creating a chance.
USA finished with 1.7 expected goals (xG) from their 11 shots, and even though Panama had more attempts (13), the visitors only mustered 0.89 xG, showing Pochettino’s side limited their opponents in terms of clear-cut opportunities.
Goalscorer Musah became the second player in USA history to play over 3,000 minutes before turning 22, while Pepi once again proved decisive from the bench. He has scored six goals as a substitute in his international career, equalling Pulisic for second-most in team history, behind Eddie Johnson (seven).
Mexico are next up for USA, so Pochettino needs to be ready for an altogether different test.
Conclusion:
It was a promising start for Mauricio Pochettino as he began his tenure as the United States national team manager with a 2-0 victory over Panama. The win showcased a more attacking style of football under Pochettino’s leadership, with players like Yunus Musah and Pepi stepping up to make important contributions.
The team’s solid defensive display and efficient use of their opportunities marked a positive shift from their previous performances. With upcoming matches against tough opponents like Mexico, Pochettino will need to continue refining his tactics and strategies to maintain their winning momentum.
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