The US men’s national soccer team is facing a major challenge under new coach Mauricio Pochettino. With four straight losses, including a 4-0 thrashing by Switzerland in a recent tune-up match, the team’s performance has been dismal.
Pochettino has called for his players to “buckle up” and start playing better, with the goal of winning games and improving their skills. The coach is under pressure from fans and former players alike, including Landon Donovan, who criticized star player Christian Pulisic for withdrawing from Gold Cup consideration.
Pulisic’s absence was followed by other notable players, such as Yunus Musah and Sergiño Dest, who are also missing the tournament due to personal reasons or injuries. The team is now focusing on the players they have available and trying to change the narrative around their recent struggles.
With a 69-9-12 record in Gold Cups since 1991, the US team has a rich history of success, but there is little expectation that they will breeze through the current tournament. Instead, they are hoping to use the competition as an opportunity to reboot and set themselves up for success at the 2026 World Cup.
“We have a huge opportunity right now to change the narrative,” said left back John Tolkin. “And that’s to win this tournament.” The team will need to come together if they want to achieve their goal, but Pochettino’s positive attitude and emphasis on unity could be just what they need to turn things around.
As the team prepares for their Gold Cup opener against Trinidad and Tobago, they will need to put aside their individual struggles and focus on working together towards a common goal. With a new coach at the helm and a chance to reboot, the US men’s national soccer team is poised to make a comeback.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/06/15/usmnt-losing-streak-gold-cup