It was a strange, up-and-down evening for the United States Men’s National Team in Cincinnati.
On one hand, the team announced the signing of Argentinian coach Mauricio Pochettino, one of the best coaches in the world and the perfect man to lead the USMNT into the World Cup at home in 2026.
On the other, it played out a disappointing draw with New Zealand … and showed Pochettino just how much work he’ll have to do to get the team fighting fit.
USMNT entered this match under immense pressure after its insipid loss to Canada the previous weekend. The team looked weak under interim coach Mikey Varas, and though the U.S. Soccer had been through months of promising negotiations with Pochettino, the two had not yet entered into an official contract agreement.
With bad performances, a stop-gap coach and no full-time leader on the horizon, USMNT prepared to take on New Zealand in Cincinnati with things looking awfully grim.
Just a few short minutes before kickoff, though, the announcement came: Pochettino had finally signed his contract with U.S. Soccer. This New Zealand friendly would be Varas’ last game in charge as interim coach.
“The opportunity to lead the U. S. Men’s National Team, in front of fans who are just as passionate as the players, is something I couldn’t pass up,” Pochettino said. “I see a group of players full of talent and potential, and together, we’re going to build something special that the whole nation can be proud of.”
