It got here all the way down to the wire in opposition to Piojo Herrera’s Costa Rica. In the long run, penalty kicks had been the decider: america escaped a possible upset much like Panama’s shocker within the Concacaf Nations League and now stands only one step away from the Gold Cup last. The mission was clear—advance, irrespective of the model of play or general efficiency. In instances of disaster, a win is an oasis.
“There’s a spirit that’s developed over the previous month—of combating, competing, and creating the type of ambiance the place there’s no room for excuses. It’s a must to give it your all and push by adversity,” mentioned Pochettino, clearly happy with the character his crew confirmed in opposition to the Ticos.
Win, win, and win once more. That’s the inspiration for constructing a undertaking that may enter the 2026 World Cup with actual perception: “Willpower is the very first thing you want—there’s no negotiating that. Expertise comes afterward.”
“With the sport tied 1–1, we discovered somewhat extra composure in our play. The buildup grew to become cleaner, we began discovering gamers in open areas, and we confirmed lengthy stretches the place our high guys had been at their greatest within the last third,” analyzed the 53-year-old Argentine coach.
Pochettino filled with reward for Matthew Freese, the hero of the evening
When requested in regards to the standout efficiency from goalkeeper Matthew Freese, Pochettino was fast to sing his praises: “Now we have nice goalkeepers, and it’s at all times a tricky resolution. We wished to present him a chance, particularly given the state of affairs surrounding Turner, to get to know one other goalkeeper and provides confidence to somebody who actually deserved it.”
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“I’m joyful for him and for all our goalkeepers—as a result of it’s additionally because of the individuals who assist put together them,” he concluded.
