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USMNT Faces Setback with Third Straight Loss
The US Men`s National Team, managed by Mauricio Pochettino, has now lost three matches in a row, a streak not seen for a decade under his leadership. Although a 2-1 friendly loss against a strong Turkish side is less severe than their recent Nations League performance, it underscores the considerable work needed just a year out from a home World Cup and a week before the Gold Cup.
Delving deeper reveals several factors at play. The starting lineup in East Hartford was far from what might be expected next summer. Key players such as Christian Pulisic were rested after their demanding club seasons, while Antonee Robinson and Folarin Balogun were sidelined with injuries. Other important figures like Weston McKennie and Giovanni Reyna were unavailable due to their participation in the Club World Cup.
The squad featured four players making their national team debut. The team started positively, with Jack McGlynn curling in a brilliant strike after driving in from the right. However, Turkey quickly established control, taking the lead before the half-hour mark after Arda Guler intercepted a loose pass from Johnny Cardoso, and Kerem Akturkoglu added another goal minutes later. The USMNT created more scoring opportunities over the remainder of the match, but only Malik Tillman came close to finding the net.
Ultimately, the game`s outcome was determined by efficiency in the penalty areas. Despite the result, Pochettino noted positive aspects of his team`s performance away from the boxes. He highlighted the aggressive pressing, characteristic of his tactical approach, and the team`s success in controlling possession, maintaining 60% throughout the game.
- Pochettino commented: `The game plan was for Diego Luna to move inside, staying close to Malik Tillman to control with Luca de la Torre and Johnny Cardoso. Jack was to remain somewhat wide but could move inside, which is how he scored the goal and had opportunities later, allowing him freedom to link up… We attempted this for the first time after just a few days of preparation and then had to compete against a team like Turkey. I believe playing this way allowed us to control possession and the game.`
The hope is that this summer provides an opportunity for the squad, which includes key players like Tyler Adams and Chris Richards, to better integrate Pochettino`s system and demands. This foundation is essential, providing time for players like Pulisic to return and add the necessary star quality closer to the World Cup. To be genuine contenders on home soil, the US must consistently perform well against teams of Turkey`s standard, a capability they need to cultivate.
Around the Football World
Portugal Secures Second UEFA Nations League Title in Iberian Derby
Meanwhile in Europe, Portugal became the first team to win the UEFA Nations League twice. While the tournament`s prestige is debated, defeating rivals is always a significant achievement. Roberto Martinez`s squad achieved this by beating their neighbors and favorites Spain in a penalty shootout, having overcome Germany in the semifinal.
Spain largely dominated proceedings in terms of possession, territory, and chances. However, Portugal displayed admirable fighting spirit, twice coming from behind to equalize through goals from Nuno Mendes and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both teams missed chances to win late in regulation time. Ultimately, Portugal held their composure in the penalty shootout, with Alvaro Morata being the only player to miss, securing Portugal`s third major trophy in nine years. This current generation, though different from the Euro 2016 winners, appears equally capable of competing for top honors.
- Martinez reflected: `After working together for over 30 matches, we are seeing increased confidence, resilience, trust, and quality. Quality combined with these other values helps you win trophies. We have more than just a team; we have 16-17 players at a similar level, which gives me many options as a coach and allows for tactical flexibility. It`s a different team from when I started; we have developed more character and confidence.`
Martinez might even be understating the squad`s depth. This Portugal team boasts an impressive balance of youth and experience. Left-back Nuno Mendes was named player of the tournament after a standout season at Paris Saint-Germain, performing alongside talents like Vitinha and Joao Neves. Veterans Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, and Ruben Dias provide vast experience, while Rafael Leao and Diogo Jota are potent options off the bench. Even 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo seems to be integrating more effectively than at the 2022 World Cup, appearing less of a burden on his teammates.
Considering their recent performance and squad strength, it is curious that Portugal is not more widely regarded among the top favorites for next summer`s World Cup. Their display over the past week suggests they certainly belong in that conversation.
Top Stories From Across Football
- USMNT Analysis: Further reports from Connecticut indicate that the USMNT is showing signs of implementing Pochettino`s tactical approach, despite the recent defeat.
- Italy Managerial Change: A dramatic turn in Italy saw the Azzurri lose their World Cup qualifier 3-0 to Norway. As a result, Luciano Spalletti will be dismissed after their upcoming match against Moldova. Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli are considered leading candidates to take over as Italy faces pressure to qualify for their first World Cup in 12 years.
- Postecoglou Departs Tottenham: The managerial merry-go-round continued as Tottenham confirmed the sacking of Ange Postecoglou, surprisingly dismissed just 16 days after leading the club to a Europa League triumph. Brentford`s Thomas Frank is reportedly the prime candidate for the vacancy.
- CWC Final Halftime Show Announced: FIFA has confirmed that J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Tems will perform during the halftime show at the Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.
- Liverpool Pursues Wirtz: Liverpool is reportedly making a strong push to sign Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal that could set a new British transfer record, a move considered a potentially excellent investment.
- `Poisoning` Alleged at Vancouver Whitecaps: In a bizarre incident, Canada manager Jesse Marsch claimed that three Vancouver Whitecaps players were `poisoned` during their Champions Cup trip to face Cruz Azul.
- Ronaldo Not Participating in CWC: Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed he will not be part of the Club World Cup. He is expected to extend his contract with Al-Nassr following recent discussions with Saudi government officials.
