The United States men’s national team (USMNT) faced a tough 1-0 loss to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semi-final, ending the brief honeymoon phase of new coach Mauricio Pochettino. Despite this setback, there is still much room for improvement ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The Precedent of Host Teams’ Struggles
Before Pochettino’s first competitive loss, the US seemed to be in good form. Key players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams were excelling at their clubs. But when it came to facing Panama, timing was not on the US’s side.
Panama had already triumphed over the US in recent competitions, with victories in the 2023 Gold Cup and 2024 Copa América. In Thursday’s match, the US team lacked energy and aggression, and despite a brighter second half, they failed to break down Panama’s defense. Panama’s Cecilio Waterman scored in the 94th minute to secure the win.
What Went Wrong for the USMNT
Pochettino recognized the team’s flaws, acknowledging their lack of aggression in the first half. He emphasized the need for the US team to improve their work ethic, emphasizing that simply wearing the national jersey is not enough to win.
The defeat was not only disappointing but highlighted some of the recurring problems in US soccer. The US struggled to start matches with intensity and had difficulty breaking down well-organized defenses, a pattern that has persisted for years.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2026
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the US team must find a way to improve. With 15 months left until the tournament, there is little time to waste. However, the Gold Cup this summer could provide a valuable opportunity for the team to gain experience, even if some key players will be unavailable due to club commitments.
Despite the setback, there are reasons to be optimistic. Key players such as Antonee Robinson and Sergiño Dest, who were injured for the Panama match, may return, strengthening the team’s attack. Additionally, the team will have another chance to prove themselves against Canada soon.
Historical Perspective: Host Teams That Overcame Struggles
Historically, host teams have had rough runs leading up to the World Cup but have found their form when it mattered most. Teams like Mexico in 1986, the US in 1994, and France in 1998 faced tough preparations but went on to achieve strong performances. This history offers some hope for the USMNT, despite their current struggles.
In conclusion, while the defeat to Panama was disheartening, the USMNT can take comfort in the fact that host teams have overcome similar challenges before. However, significant work remains for Pochettino and his team to ensure they are ready for the 2026 World Cup.
