Another loss to Panama in a competitive match raises concerns for the United States men’s national team, but it doesn’t indicate failure at the 2026 World Cup. Their participation in the Nations League third-place game against either Mexico or Canada offers a significant preparation opportunity.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino acknowledged the need for improvement, mentioning issues like pressing, long-range shots, and intensity, summarizing that they need to compete more effectively.
Pochettino emphasized that everyone is responsible for improving performance. The team has a chance to demonstrate progress on Sunday, which could influence squad selection for the Gold Cup. He has previously spoken about trusting the squad and individual players. Players like Patrick Ageymang and Jack McGlynn gained trust during the January camp, while others still need to prove themselves.
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Ahead of the World Cup, Pochettino needs to assess his squad’s strengths and weaknesses. Losses like this to Panama can be more informative for identifying areas for improvement than victories. Here are reasons for USMNT optimism:
The Team Improves Significantly with Robinson and Balogun
Antonee Robinson is arguably the USMNT’s second most crucial player after Christian Pulisic. Robinson excels defensively, contributes to attacks, and moves into midfield effectively. Few fullbacks worldwide possess his capabilities. Joe Scally’s role on the left flank as a hybrid center back and left back highlighted Robinson’s absence. While backup for Robinson is a concern, even Sergino Dest, the usual right back and second-choice left back, was unavailable in this camp. The team performs much better with both Robinson and Dest on the field, and their absence was felt.
Developing squad depth takes time. The absence of key core players creates gaps that are hard to fill without system changes. Constant adjustments are not ideal for a team at the USMNT’s level. Folarin Balogun’s absence up front was also significant. Even without direct ball contact, his movement creates space for teammates in attack.
Most teams would struggle with their third-choice left back and striker in a game. Simultaneous absences of both make squad balance challenging.
Time is Still Available
While the World Cup is less than 500 days away, this timeframe also provides ample opportunity for growth. Players can move to new clubs, challenge themselves, and Pochettino can further integrate into American soccer. He has learned quickly since taking over in October 2024 and will continue learning before the World Cup. Players will adapt to his expectations or risk losing their squad positions. Dest and other players will return, strengthening the team.
Concerns would escalate if these issues persist later in 2025. However, the USMNT has much to learn, and Panama’s single excellent goal shouldn’t overshadow the team’s solid defensive performance in this match. If Sargent’s shot had gone in instead of hitting the post, the game’s outcome could have been different, emphasizing the importance of perspective.
Competition Remains Key
Regardless of the Panama result, the USMNT will face Canada or Mexico next. Competition is shaped by the team’s response. While trophies can be motivating, if the players require a trophy for motivation under Pochettino, World Cup expectations should be lowered. Upcoming matches against Türkiye and Switzerland before the Gold Cup demonstrate the USMNT’s commitment to playing strong opponents. Teams will bring competitive squads against the USMNT, providing valuable learning experiences.
Scheduling high-level friendlies and World Cup warm-ups ensures continuous challenges. The Gold Cup might also feature stronger teams than usual as the final competitive matches before the World Cup. Although the loss is disappointing for fans, it’s beneficial to learn from it now as preparation for the future.
