The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) suffered their third consecutive defeat, falling 2-1 to Turkey in a friendly match in East Hartford, Connecticut. Despite an early lead, defensive errors proved costly, raising concerns and prompting a focus on rebuilding team chemistry and mentality ahead of the Gold Cup.
USMNT’s Rocky Start to Summer Friendlies
The USMNT’s summer schedule began with a disappointing 2-1 loss to Turkey, marking their third straight defeat. This follows a dismal performance at the CONCACAF Nations League final four in March. Coach Mauricio Pochettino, who took over after the team’s first-round elimination from last year’s Copa América, now faces increased scrutiny as the team’s record under his leadership drops to 5-4.
Key Takeaways
- Early Lead Squandered: Jack McGlynn opened the scoring for the USMNT in the first minute, but Turkey quickly responded with two goals in less than three minutes from Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoğlu, capitalizing on defensive lapses.
- Experimental Roster: Pochettino fielded an experimental starting XI, with several new faces and players with limited international experience. Many regulars were unavailable due to Club World Cup commitments, injuries, or rest, including Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie.
- Defensive Woes: A critical error by Johnny Cardoso led directly to Turkey’s first goal, and a subsequent poor clearance contributed to their second. These mistakes highlighted a lack of defensive cohesion and composure.
- Pochettino’s Perspective: Despite the loss, Pochettino and some players expressed optimism, emphasizing the team’s improved energy and attitude compared to previous matches. Pochettino believes the team showed commitment and that the mistakes were part of the game, not a lack of effort.
- Gold Cup Preparation: The friendlies serve as crucial preparation for the upcoming Gold Cup, which begins on June 15 against Trinidad and Tobago. Pochettino aims to instill competition and desire within the squad, even with the absence of key veteran players.
- Uncertainty at Striker: Patrick Agyemang, starting at striker, struggled to make a significant impact, leaving the No. 9 position still a concern for Pochettino. Other options like Haji Wright and Brian White also saw limited success.
Looking Ahead
The USMNT will play another friendly against Switzerland on Tuesday before kicking off their Gold Cup campaign. The team’s ability to learn from these mistakes and build chemistry will be vital for their performance in the tournament and as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sources
- USMNT’s upbeat reaction to Turkey loss a telling sign of need to restore basics, The New York Times.
- USMNT lose third straight as Turkey makes them pay for sloppy defense, FOX Sports.
- Mistakes cost USMNT in 2-1 loss to Türkiye, Stars and Stripes FC.
- USA sees positives despite 3rd straight loss in Turkey friendly, ESPN.
- Turkey loss gives Poch, USMNT more questions than answers, ESPN.
