Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Pochettino Faces First Defeat as U.S. Coach in 2-0 Loss to Mexico

Posted : 16 October 2024

Mauricio Pochettino experienced his first loss as the head coach of the United States men’s national soccer team, as they fell to Mexico 2-0 in a friendly match on Tuesday. This defeat marked the end of an impressive unbeaten streak for the U.S., which had not lost to their North American rivals since 2019. Goals from Raul Jimenez and Cesar Huerta sealed the victory for Mexico, ending the U.S.'s run against them.

 

Pochettino had enjoyed a successful debut just days prior, securing a 2-0 win against Panama in Austin. However, with several key players absent, the team struggled to maintain that momentum against Mexico. Midfielder Tyler Adams and forwards Tim Weah and Folarin Balogun were already ruled out, and star winger Christian Pulisic, along with Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie, returned to their clubs. Additionally, defender Mark McKenzie withdrew at the last minute, leading to Miles Robinson starting in his place.

 

The match also featured a notable moment as Mexico’s 38-year-old midfielder Andres Guardado made his final appearance for the national team, earning his 182nd cap. Guardado was substituted after just 18 minutes, receiving a heartfelt standing ovation from the fans at Estadio Akron. Just four minutes later, the crowd erupted again when Jimenez scored a stunning free kick, finding the top corner of the net past U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner.

 

Mexico doubled their lead shortly after halftime, with Jimenez involved again. After American defender Tim Ream attempted to dispossess him in the box, Jimenez's sliding tackle inadvertently set up Huerta, who skilfully maneuvered, find space and shot into the corner, leaving Turner with no chance to save. Although the U.S. had opportunities to narrow the gap late in the match—most notably when Kristoffer Lund missed an open shot at the back post and substitute Brandon Vazquez had a low drive blocked by Mexico's keeper Luis Malagon—the game concluded with a clear victory for Mexico.

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :