For nearly 20 months, the U.S. men’s national soccer team led by Mauricio Pochettino felt more theoretical than real. Player turnovers, varying intensity, and changing tactics made it tough to picture the team’s future performance in the 2026 World Cup.
However, the recent match against Senegal, held in Charlotte, N.C., provided glimpses of the potential. The U.S. team executed incisive runs and effective overloads, showcasing promising play. The 3-2 win over Senegal highlighted the team’s strengths, even if some errors occurred, mostly from players unlikely to start in future key matches.
Under Pochettino, appointed in October 2024, the U.S. team had struggled with consistency. High-profile players struggled after returning, resulting in losses and a dampened atmosphere earlier this year. Nonetheless, Sunday’s game was encouraging.
Christian Pulisic impressed by scoring and assisting, linking up effectively with teammates like Antonee Robinson and Ricardo Pepi. Sergiño Dest and Alex Freeman showed good chemistry on the right, contributing to attacking plays that bewildered Senegalese defenders. Freeman’s overlap from midfield led to a crucial goal.
While Gio Reyna played a steady role in the midfield, Sebastian Berhalter seemed overwhelmed at times. Imagining Weston McKennie in his role offered a glimpse of potential improvements. McKennie’s entry at halftime, along with Malik Tillman and Folarin Balogun, brought renewed energy.
Pochettino acknowledged areas for growth, citing the need to manage situations better to avoid conceding goals. Defensive issues, noted with players like Miles Robinson, emphasized the importance of top defenders like Chris Richards, expected to fortify the lineup for future challenges.
Despite weaknesses, Pochettino’s vision for ball control was evident. The U.S. team dominated possession, a key strategy for defensive and offensive success. Tyler Adams and Pulisic commended the team’s progress. Senegal’s coach, Pape Thiaw, admitted the U.S. disrupted their play.
Pochettino emphasized the goal to dominate matches through possession and strategic play near the opponent’s goal. He envisaged deeper roles for players like McKennie and Tillman alongside Adams for better control and quick ball movement.
Sunday’s performance reflected this strategy, marking the U.S. team’s best showing under Pochettino against a formidable opponent. It depicted the realization of strategies and potential the team had discussed for months.
Pochettino saw the collective talent and commitment, reinforcing belief in the team’s high ceiling and potential to captivate American audiences at the upcoming World Cup, although success is not guaranteed.