United States Suffers 0-2 Loss to South Korea in Friendly Match: Pochettino Maintains Resilience in Face of Recent Defeat

The World Cup is just nine months away, and the United States men's national soccer team is gearing up for the global showpiece. However, recent results in friendly matches have raised concerns, with the team falling to a third straight defeat against South Korea.

Despite the setbacks, Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the United States, remains upbeat. The Argentine coach believes that the USA will be very difficult to beat in the World Cup.

In their latest match against South Korea, the United States had an impressive 17 shots and an expected goals (xG) rate of 2.23, but were unable to find the back of the net. The team only conceded one shot on target during the match, a testament to their defensive resilience.

Lee Dong-gyeong scored the second goal for South Korea before half-time, with Son Heung-Min netting the opening goal after 18 minutes. Despite the loss, Pochettino believes that the United States performed well against South Korea, controlling the game for large portions.

Pochettino's message to the fans is that the USA will arrive in a good condition for the World Cup. The team will face Japan in Ohio in their next friendly match.

The coach is pleased with the way the team is evolving, but admits that results need to improve when the World Cup starts. Pochettino gives examples of teams that have won for years and then failed at the World Cup, emphasising the importance of consistency.

Pochettino has not had the desired effect since being appointed in September 2024, with the team not beating a side inside the top 25 of the world rankings since December 2022. However, the coach is unconcerned about his side's immediate form, focusing instead on the long-term goal of World Cup success.

Pochettino was involved in the 2002 World Cup with Argentina, and he brings a wealth of experience to the US team. He is confident that the USA will be in a better place once the World Cup comes around.

As the countdown to the World Cup continues, Pochettino and the United States will be hoping to turn their friendly form around and enter the tournament with momentum on their side.

United States Suffers 0-2 Loss to South Korea in Friendly Match: Pochettino Maintains Resilience in Face of Recent Defeat