Pochettino Begins Tenure as US Manager with Win Over Panama

Mauricio Pochettino marked his debut as the United States manager with a 2-0 victory over Panama in Austin, Texas.

AC Milan midfielder Yunus Musah opened the scoring early in the second half, and PSV striker Ricardo Pepi added a late goal to secure the win.

Pochettino opted for experienced international goalkeeper Matt Turner, currently on loan at Crystal Palace from Nottingham Forest but yet to play this season. The decision paid off, as Turner made two crucial saves during the match.

“After a few days of training with the team, I think it’s amazing the way we were focused and concentrated, trying to follow the plan,” said the Argentine manager. “It was a professional performance. It’s the basis for the first step to start to grow and get better.”

He acknowledged there are areas for improvement but expressed optimism, stating, “This is the beginning of a process that has to arrive in 2026 [at the World Cup] in the best condition. I am also happy because we have won, and whenever you win, things are easier to correct and improve.”

Pochettino, who previously managed Southampton, Chelsea, and Tottenham, was appointed in September following the dismissal of Gregg Berhalter. Berhalter was let go after the US’s group-stage elimination from the Copa America, which included a 2-1 loss to Panama.

The United States, ranked 18th in the world, will co-host the 2026 World Cup along with Canada and Mexico. Their next match is against Mexico in another friendly on Tuesday in Guadalajara.