CARSON, California – After a disappointing loss to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal, the US Men`s National Team is focused on regaining their competitive spirit for their upcoming game against Canada. The team is determined to learn from Thursday`s defeat and show a stronger mentality.
The loss against Panama raised concerns about the USMNT`s ability to perform under pressure and reach their full potential, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching. Coach Mauricio Pochettino and midfielder Tyler Adams have both acknowledged the team needs to be more aggressive and determined.
Adams admitted, “I would criticize us too. If we want to be praised, we need to give people a reason to praise us.”
To address this issue, Pochettino held a team meeting to emphasize the need for a “killer mentality.” Winger Timothy Weah shared, “He explained that we have to have that killer mentality and we have to want it 100%. We have to fight and work together.”
Since the loss, the team has had open and honest discussions about their weaknesses. Weah pointed out that sometimes when playing against teams perceived as weaker, they tend to lose some intensity. Pochettino echoed this sentiment, suggesting the team might be too relaxed at times.
Pochettino stressed the importance of playing with the same intensity as they do for their club teams, where losses have significant consequences. He felt that against Panama, there was a sense of complacency, waiting for opportunities to arise instead of actively creating them. He believes the team needs to be more aggressive from the start, aiming to dominate and secure a comfortable lead.
Pochettino also mentioned that the team is still adapting to his coaching style, as he has only been in charge for a few games. He believes that sometimes the players might be overthinking instructions instead of focusing on taking initiative and attacking opportunities.
Adams emphasized the need for the USMNT to set the standard in every game, regardless of the opponent. “We need to raise the bar. We need to be the team that sets the tone for every single game,” he stated, highlighting the importance of representing their country with pride and determination.
Weah believes the Canada game will be a chance to demonstrate the team`s potential and show the changes they are making. He sees the Panama loss as a valuable learning experience that will help the team grow and improve under Pochettino`s guidance, expressing optimism that a much stronger USMNT will emerge in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup.
