5 years. That’s how long it took for Mexico to defeat the US Men’s National Team today. The timing couldn’t have been worse for the Stars and Stripes, who had just played their second match under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino—albeit winning the first against Panama. While ardent fans may be close to hitting the panic button, the Argentinian tactician believes such a result is ‘perfect for learning.’

A brilliant free kick from Raul Jiminez in the 22nd minute followed by a no-stopping shot from Cesar Huerta within the 6-yard box in the 50th minute was enough for El Tri to secure their much-awaited victory against the American boys. Of course, Pochettino had no choice but to accept the result. “We didn’t play well,” began Mauricio Pochettino while speaking to beINSPORTS, admitting his team was easily the worse side today.

Sadly, nothing’s going to help them ponder over the loss, with the former Chelsea boss urging his side to rather see the silver lining from this major setback. “But I think this kind of match is perfect for learning… Mexico were a little better and deserved their win. For us, it’s a road that only began a few days ago… We can improve and learn from this performance,” concluded the 52-year-old.

No one thought things would escalate so quickly for the 7x Gold Cup winners, especially since they had entered the match with a buzzing 2-0 win over Panama, courtesy of Yunus Musah and Ricardo Pepi. But today’s match was a complete turnaround in the script, with Mauricio Pochettino and Co. showing signs of disappointment from such an early stage.  

Concern grows when you take a closer look at the numbers. Mexico took a total of 17 shots, with 5 on target. And the USMNT? Drumroll—just 5 shots in total, with only one on target. However, Team USA did finish the game with 53% possession and completed more passes, tallying 388 compared to Mexico’s 343.

These stats aren’t being highlighted to underline the obvious, but one must tell that it just wasn’t USMNT’s day in the office today. In fact, a star player has stepped in to reassure ardent fans. It’s merely a setback and the team will be back in no time!

USMNT star echoes Mauricio Pochettino’s setback claims over Mexico defeat

Despite the disappointing result, Aidan Morris expressed support for the Argentine coach. According to Golazo America, Morris said, “It’s early days. It’s tough you know. You work with such a talented coach and he has to fit in, in the span of four days before your first game. But I think the main thing was just the competitive piece.”

Morris noted glimpses of such competitiveness were visible in their recent game against Panama, where the team’s energy was notably positive. While acknowledging that things won’t always be perfect instantly, the midfielder added, “I think if you can just get the energy and the mentality right, we’ll be onto a good track.”

Not to mention that key players, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Ricardo Pepi, weren’t available at Mauricio Pochettino’s disposal. But again, that is no reason for today’s result, so it remains to be seen how they perform in the next window.