After the USMNT’s disappointing loss to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal, the focus shifts to Sunday’s third-place match against Canada. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m. ET at SoFi Stadium and broadcast on Paramount+, presents a unique matchup between Jesse Marsch and Mauricio Pochettino on the international stage. While both coaches would have preferred to compete in the final, this game remains a significant test for both teams.
Canada has shown consistent improvement under Marsch. With both the USMNT and Canada automatically qualified for the 2026 World Cup as co-hosts, these Nations League matches are vital for squad development. Third-place games can sometimes lack intensity, but the growing rivalry between the USMNT and Canada ensures this will be a meaningful contest. It’s an opportunity for the U.S. to prove that the Panama loss was an anomaly, not a sign of deeper problems.
To improve upon the Panama performance, Pochettino should consider several tactical adjustments when facing Canada.
More creativity in midfield
One key change is injecting more creativity into the midfield. While Weston McKennie offers versatility, he isn’t a natural playmaker. The Panama game lacked a player who could dribble past defenders and create opportunities. Gio Reyna and Diego Luna are options within the squad who could provide this spark. If the USMNT’s attack looks stagnant against Canada, Pochettino needs to be ready to make substitutions early. Christian Pulisic also needs more support from dribbling teammates to prevent defenses from focusing solely on him. The team’s offensive struggles against Panama highlighted a lack of balance, especially with limited contributions from the fullbacks.
Utilize natural fullbacks
Another way to achieve better balance is to deploy a back four with players in their preferred positions. Joe Scally performed adequately as a third center back or left back, but Yunus Musah as a wing-back was not effective creatively. This isn’t a criticism of Musah’s abilities, but wing-back isn’t his natural role. Given the USMNT’s historical reliance on attacking fullbacks, it would be beneficial to allow fullbacks to play their natural game and trust the midfield to provide defensive cover. With Tyler Adams back in the team, the USMNT has increased defensive security. Adams’s awareness and ability to cover space minimizes defensive errors. His presence allows the team to adopt a less conservative approach, preventing opponents from gaining confidence and creating chances, as Panama did with their winning goal.
Passion
Like many previous coaches, Pochettino has emphasized the need for players to show more passion and pride in representing their country. This includes playing with greater intensity in tackles and being more willing to take shots, even from less-than-perfect positions. As one of Concacaf’s top teams, the USMNT needs to play with confidence and assertiveness. Recent setbacks, including Copa America disappointment and inconsistent performances, have affected the team’s confidence. Regaining this swagger is vital, especially with the World Cup approaching on home soil. Opponents are always motivated to play against the USMNT, so the team must be prepared to defend their home turf and play with pride.
This issue of passion and intensity isn’t new for the USMNT, and it’s a problem they must address to ensure consistent success as they move closer to the World Cup.
