Despite recent losses, USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino remains optimistic ahead of their friendly against Japan. He emphasizes the team’s progress and commitment to their plan. Folarin Balogun echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of analyzing defeats and striving for victory.
Mauricio Pochettino, the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) head coach, is maintaining a positive outlook despite mounting pressure following a string of unconvincing performances. The USMNT are preparing to face Japan in a friendly match on Tuesday, aiming to bounce back from a recent defeat and demonstrate their progress under Pochettino's guidance.
The USMNT suffered a 2-0 loss to South Korea in their previous match, a result that further amplified concerns about the team's form. Goals from Tottenham Hotspurs forward Son Heung-min and Lee Jae-sung condemned the Americans to their second consecutive defeat, following their Gold Cup final loss to Mexico earlier in the summer. Despite the defeat, Pochettino has emphasized the positive aspects of his team's performance against South Korea, highlighting their attacking output and creation of goal-scoring opportunities.
In the match against South Korea, the USMNT recorded 2.33 expected goals (xG) and unleashed 17 shots. However, their inability to convert these chances proved costly, ultimately leading to their downfall. Since assuming the managerial role in September 2024, Pochettino has faced a challenging start to his tenure. Out of his 18 games in charge, the USMNT has won nine, drawn two, and lost seven. These results have prompted scrutiny and raised questions about the team's trajectory under his leadership.
Pushing. Preparing. pic.twitter.com/amo3F67Eqq
— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) September 8, 2025
Despite the disappointing results and the pressure that comes with them, Pochettino remains steadfast in his belief in the team's potential and the process they are undertaking. He emphasized the team's performance against South Korea and conveyed his optimism about the team's development.
"Because I think we performed, despite the result, in a very good way," Pochettino said. "The players tried to do, they did what we wanted. I think I am positive because the players trust in the process, because they know that we have a plan, know here inside that we have a plan and we stick with the plan."
Pochettino acknowledged the importance of winning but stressed that he is equally focused on implementing a long-term plan and fostering a winning culture within the team. He remains committed to the process and confident that the USMNT will improve as they continue to work together.
"Of course, I'm the first guy that is interested in winning because we are very competitive. But at the same time also is the process and the plan that we have, we stick with that still," he added.
Folarin Balogun, who debuted for the USMNT in 2023, echoed his head coach's sentiments and expressed his unwavering faith in the team's capabilities. Balogun emphasized the importance of analyzing their defeats and using them as motivation to improve and secure victories in future matches.
“[We want] a collective reaction, after a defeat the next best thing is to analyse it and go and get a win, so that is what we will be looking to do tomorrow,” Balogun said. He also added representing the USMNT is an honour and the team will give their best for the fans.
“Every time we are called to represent the USMNT it is an honour, it is never something to be taken for granted. No matter which boys are here, I’m sure the mentality is the same, which is to go out there and give the best for the badge and have a good performance.
“I’m excited to be playing here. And we are playing a really good team in Japan and it will be a good test for us, and we will be looking to have a reaction and give the fans something to cheer about.”
As the USMNT prepares to face Japan, Pochettino and his players are determined to showcase their progress and demonstrate their ability to compete against top-quality opposition. The match presents an opportunity to refine their tactics, improve their chemistry, and gain valuable experience as they continue their journey towards future success. With Pochettino at the helm and a talented squad at his disposal, the USMNT is poised to make significant strides in the years to come.