The United States men`s national team has reached a new low point after a defeat to Canada in the Concacaf Nations League third-place match. This loss marks the first time they have failed to win this tournament, especially after Mexico secured their inaugural title by defeating Panama on Sunday.
The USMNT has now experienced defeat in three out of their last five matches outside of January camp games. As the Gold Cup approaches this summer, pressure is mounting on both the players and coach Mauricio Pochettino to improve their performance. This growing disappointment has fueled concerns within and outside the team. Reactions have ranged from calls for patience and team support to outright anger from former national team players.
Following Sunday`s defeat, numerous figures, from USMNT icons like Landon Donovan to current players such as Christian Pulisic, have voiced their reactions. Let`s examine some of these responses.
Mauricio Pochettino
In his post-match comments, Pochettino discussed the team`s development under his leadership and suggested that achieving desired results may require time for fans to understand.
`I`ve observed instances where teams preparing for the World Cup didn`t perform optimally until the tournament was near,` Pochettino stated. `My message to the fans is to avoid pessimism and negative emotions.`
Pochettino further elaborated that the current situation would be far more critical if it occurred closer to the World Cup.
`I believe we have sufficient time. If we were in this situation a year from now, I would certainly acknowledge a significant problem,` Pochettino added.
`Assessing the situation in a year will reveal if we have a major issue and have failed to devise a better strategy to equip the team for improved performance. I believe the timing is preferable now rather than closer to a crucial tournament.`
Thierry Henry
Thierry Henry, a legend of Arsenal and analyst for CBS Sports, echoed the rising concerns regarding the team`s prospects for the 2026 World Cup. While key players like Antonee Robinson, Sergino Dest, and Folarin Balogun were absent for this international window, Henry emphasized that recent performances in critical matches were inadequate, leading him to comment:
Landon Donovan
Given the team`s previous reputation as a `golden generation` despite lacking significant World Cup achievements, former players like Donovan are eager to see the team demonstrate commitment and pride in representing their nation. The outspoken retired US star did not hold back in his criticism.
`I am tired of hearing about the `talent` within this player group and the prestigious clubs they represent. If you are unwilling to dedicate yourself and genuinely care about playing for your national team, then decline the invitation. Talent is valuable, but pride is even more essential,` Donovan expressed.
Clint Dempsey
Clint Dempsey, also an analyst for CBS Sports, minced no words in labeling this international break as a failure, reflecting the growing discontent. Similar to Donovan, Dempsey stressed the importance of fighting for the national badge and giving maximum effort when wearing the team jersey.
`Regardless of perspective, this international window was unsuccessful… When I was on the field, I gave everything I had,` Dempsey remarked.
Christian Pulisic
Despite limited opportunities with the ball against Canada, star player Christian Pulisic captained the team during the match. Following the game, he emphasized the need for the team to rebound strongly in upcoming major tournaments to build momentum. He also reflected on the significance of leading the USMNT.
`This team means everything to me. My dedication to this team and this country is immense,` Pulisic stated. `I hope people recognize my commitment; it is a true honor. Every opportunity to lead this country is profoundly meaningful to me.`
Taylor Twellman
Taylor Twellman raised numerous questions concerning the broader state of US Soccer, including whether the team might struggle to qualify for the expanded World Cup, similar to their failure to reach the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He also posed several questions of his own regarding the team`s direction.
Jozy Altidore
Drawing from his own experiences of challenges with the USMNT, Jozy Altidore appealed for support for the current squad. While acknowledging the understandable disappointment, he emphasized the significant impact of fan support at the international level.
