The US Men`s National Team has reached a new low point after losing to Canada in the Concacaf Nations League third-place match. This defeat marks the first time they have failed to win this tournament, especially after Mexico secured their inaugural Concacaf Nations League title by defeating Panama 2-1.
The USMNT has now suffered losses in three out of their last five matches outside of January camp games. With the Gold Cup approaching this summer, pressure is intensifying on both the players and coach Mauricio Pochettino to improve their performance. As disappointment grows, so does the level of concern surrounding the team. Reactions have ranged from calls for patience and support to outright anger from former national team players.
From USMNT icons like Landon Donovan to current players such as Christian Pulisic, numerous figures have voiced their reactions to Sunday`s loss. Let`s examine some of these responses.
Mauricio Pochettino
Following the game, Pochettino discussed his ongoing project with the USMNT and suggested that it might take time for his message to resonate with fans.
`I`ve observed instances where teams preparing for the World Cup didn`t perform well until closer to the tournament,` Pochettino stated. `I want to reassure the fans, urging them to avoid pessimism and negative feelings.`
Pochettino further elaborated that the situation would be far more critical if the team were performing this way just before the World Cup.
`I believe we have time. If we were in this situation a year from now, I would definitely say, “Houston, we have a problem,” right?` Pochettino commented.
`You`ll see in a year if we`re still discussing this, it would indicate a significant problem and a failure to devise a better strategy to equip the team to play differently. I believe we have time, and I prefer this happening now rather than in a year.`
Thierry Henry
Thierry Henry, Arsenal legend and CBS Sports analyst, echoed the growing concerns about the team`s prospects leading up to the 2026 World Cup. While key players like Antonee Robinson, Sergino Dest, and Folarin Balogun were absent for this international window, Henry emphasized that these performances in crucial matches are simply unacceptable, stating:
Landon Donovan
Despite being labeled a golden generation, this USMNT has yet to achieve significant World Cup success. Former players like Donovan are demanding to see more fight and pride when representing the national team. The outspoken former US star did not hold back in his criticism.
`I am tired of hearing about how “talented” this group is and the prestigious clubs they play for. If you are not going to show up and genuinely care about playing for your country, then decline the invitation. Talent is valuable, but pride is even more so,` Donovan asserted.
Clint Dempsey
Clint Dempsey, also a CBS Sports analyst, minced no words, labeling this international window a failure as dissatisfaction intensifies. Similar to Donovan, Dempsey emphasized the importance of fighting for the badge and giving maximum effort when wearing the national team shirt.
`Regardless of perspective, this international window was a failure… When I was on the field, I gave everything I had,` Dempsey stated.
Christian Pulisic
Despite limited opportunities with the ball against Canada, star player Christian Pulisic captained the team during the match. Following the game, he spoke about the necessity to rebound strongly with major tournaments approaching to build momentum. He also reflected on the significance of leading the USMNT.
`This team means everything to me. I deeply care about this team and this country,` Pulisic expressed. `I hope people recognize my dedication; it`s a true honor. Anytime I have the opportunity to lead this country, it means a great deal to me.`
Taylor Twellman
Taylor Twellman raised numerous questions about the broader state of US Soccer, even questioning whether this team would fail to qualify for the expanded World Cup, echoing the team`s failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He also posed several questions of his own.
Jozy Altidore
Jozy Altidore, drawing from his own experiences with the USMNT`s challenges, appealed for support for the current squad. While acknowledging the understandable disappointment, Altidore emphasized the significant impact of fan support at the international level.
