This U.S. team is filled with pace, though Mauricio Pochettino is all about slow, deliberate play. It presents an obvious challenge: Can the USMNT get up to speed before the World Cup?

Mauricio Pochettino Makes Statement After USMNT Loss originally appeared on Athlon Sports. On Saturday, the United States Men's National Team lost its third straight match in all competitions under head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The line was the first of several similar comments during his post-match remarks, one that carried the baggage of the team's uninspiring defeats during the Concacaf Nations League finals in March. Competitive edge was the big talking point out of those matches rather than the tactical identity Pochettino was hired to instill in a team that many believe have the potential to make a real impact at the 2026 World Cup on home soil.