Pochettino analyzes the USMNT’s Gold Cup chances: “The right mindset must be there”

The United States men’s national team will face significant pressure heading into this summer’s Gold Cup following a string of poor results in the Concacaf Nations League.

Recent setbacks have placed the team, led by Mauricio Pochettino, in a position where winning the tournament is seen as essential. The Gold Cup will serve as the final major official test before next year’s World Cup which the US will host.

Pressure mounting on the USMNT in the run-up to 2026 World Cup

Pochettino is fully aware of the challenges the team faces and the high expectations to triumph at the tournament. Speaking to US Soccer, he acknowledged the gravity of the situation and emphasized that he has a clear plan to guide the team toward success this summer.

“For sure to start we must compete hard. We must match the intensity of our opponents, because in these tournaments they are always motivated to play against the USA. Of course we must perform well to win and you don’t always get a result, but for sure in order to win you have to compete,“ the Argentine coach said.

”It’s not just about showing up in your home country and trying to play nice soccer. No, you must be proud, you must fight for the people that would love to be in your position, for the millions of kids that are going to see us and dream to be one day where we are. This is type of responsibility and commitment we need to show in a different way than we did in Los Angeles,” he added.

Pochettino anticipates a tough Gold Cup group stage

Regarding the group in which the United States will face Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, and invited guests Saudi Arabia, Pochettino was forthright, acknowledging that he expects challenging matches. He emphasized the importance of finding the best version of the USMNT as they continue to prepare for the World Cup. His focus underscores the critical role the Gold Cup will play in sharpening the team’s readiness for global competition.

“I think it’s going to be a difficult group, and it’s important that we respect all of our opponents in the competition. The Gold Cup is historically always a difficult competition, and we are excited to be involved and of course we want to win. It’s a good opportunity for us to test different players and see their character and continue to build and prepare the team for the World Cup,” he ended.

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