Pochettino Praises USMNT’s Spirit, Warns of Paraguay Match Dangers
U.S. national soccer team head coach Mauricio Pochettino recently praised his players’ fighting spirit following a thrilling clash with Paraguay. The match, held on November 16, 2025, ended in a 2-1 victory for the U.S., showcasing determination and resilience on the pitch.
Pochettino’s Leadership and Team Spirit
Pochettino emphasizes the value of competitiveness among his players. This was evident in the dying minutes of the match when U.S. defender Alex Freeman and Paraguay captain Gustavo Gómez battled fiercely for possession. Their struggle escalated, leading to an altercation that involved players from both teams.
“That situation is very, very dangerous,” Pochettino remarked after the game. He expressed concerns about such scuffles but recognized the tenacity displayed by his players.
Key Player Reactions
U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese acknowledged the chaotic moment, stating, “We support each other no matter the moment.” Defenders Tim Ream and Max Arfsten reinforced this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of protecting teammates. “It shows that guys are in it,” Ream commented, while Arfsten noted, “Pochettino always tells us to fight.” This mentality aligns with the gritty, physical nature of the match.
Clash Highlights
- Final Score: U.S. 2, Paraguay 1
- Goals scored by Gio Reyna and Folarin Balogun.
- Match Date: November 16, 2025
- Coaching Strategies: Pochettino utilized a 3-4-2-1 formation, shifting to a 4-2-3-1 in the second half.
Growing Momentum Ahead of the World Cup
The victory against Paraguay marked the U.S. national team’s fourth match unbeaten, a sequence that includes three victories and one draw. This performance is a promising development as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
Pochettino highlighted the significance of scheduling competitive fixtures, stating, “These are not ‘friendly’ games.” The intense atmosphere against formidable opponents like Paraguay enhances the team’s readiness for the World Cup.
Looking Forward
Despite missing key players such as Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams, the U.S. squad demonstrated growth. The team’s new structure and approach are coalescing effectively, leading to improved on-field understanding among players. Ream commented on this development, saying, “Things are clicking now.”
Pochettino remains optimistic yet focused on further improvement as the World Cup approaches. “Paraguay is very competitive and difficult to beat,” he acknowledged. “We need to keep going. We need to improve, improve, improve to arrive at the World Cup.”
