Remember those viral clips from Amazon’s hit series All or Nothing where we got an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a regular matchday? We saw iconic team talks from Pep Guardiola and José Mourinho. Well, the USMNT has its version called Behind the Crest, and in the latest episode, we get a glimpse of how head coach Mauricio Pochettino handles things in the dressing room.

Ever since Mauricio Pochettino took over the Stars and Stripes, the USMNT has been playing a brand-new style of soccer, and many fans, believe the Argentine is the best coach they’ve had in recent times. In the latest episode, we get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the locker room during halftime, with the USMNT leading 3-0, against Jamaica in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals. 

As the team walks in during halftime, we see goalkeeper Matt Turner and fullback Antonee Robinson being vocal and encouraging their teammates. However, no one speaks more than the manager himself. “Every single ball is the most important ball, and protect (it), we cannot play like, okay, we are winning three-nil,” says Poch, asking his team to win more Ariel duels. 

“We need to go there and show the mentality that when we play, (we play) seriously, take seriously the next 45 minutes, take like it’s nil-nil, and we need to win the game, and the only way we are going to win is by improving our mentality,” said Pochettino with expressive hand movements. 

While Pochettino kept repeating the need to maintain a clean sheet, Demarai Gray managed to score two goals for Jamaica. However, the USMNT eventually won the match 4-2, securing a 5-2 aggregate victory. A point that Pochettinno made clear to his players was if they were too tired to press, he would bring on substitutes who could make an impact, something he plans to utilize more in their upcoming January camp.

“It’s a unique opportunity” – Mauricio Pochettino on upcoming friendlies

In January, the USMNT will be playing friendlies against  Venezuela and Costa Rica, and with the games falling outside FIFA’s International window, it will be a great opportunity for emerging players to get some game time. Or even some young talents to get their first caps. 

“It’s a unique opportunity to work with our MLS players closely and then finish with a good challenge against Costa Rica,” says Pochettino, who has been vocal about his players getting minutes, regardless of the leagues they play in. 

With skipper Christian Pulisic injured, Pochettino is likely to rest his key players for the two games. While the roster for the friendlies is yet to be released, we hope the likes of Diego Luna, and Cole Campbell, among others make it onto the starting XI or even the bench. The January camp will be crucial for Pochettino to test his squad depth, particularly in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.