The US Men’s National Team suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Turkey in a friendly match, marking their third consecutive loss. Despite an early lead from Jack McGlynn, defensive errors allowed Turkey to score two quick goals. The result raises concerns for coach Mauricio Pochettino’s squad as they prepare for the upcoming Gold Cup and the 2026 World Cup.
Early Promise Undone by Defensive Lapses
The match began brightly for the USMNT, with Jack McGlynn scoring a spectacular goal just 59 seconds into the game. Receiving a pass from Malik Tillman, McGlynn skillfully cut inside and curled a left-footed shot into the far post, giving the Americans an early advantage. This marked McGlynn’s second international goal and the earliest US goal since 2021.
However, the lead was short-lived due to critical defensive mistakes. In the 24th minute, a miscommunication between goalkeeper Matt Freese and midfielder Johnny Cardoso led to Turkey’s equalizer. Cardoso’s attempted pass ricocheted off Turkey’s Arda Güler and into the net. Just three minutes later, Kerem Aktürkoğlu capitalized on a poor clearance from Miles Robinson, firing a shot past Freese to give Turkey a 2-1 lead.
Pochettino’s Perspective and Team Changes
Coach Mauricio Pochettino, who took over after the USMNT’s early exit from last year’s Copa América, made significant changes to the roster following a dismal performance in the CONCACAF Nations League. Eight starters were changed from the previous match, with new faces like Alex Freeman and Matt Freese making their international debuts. Despite the loss, Pochettino expressed satisfaction with the team’s effort and attitude.
"The team showed great energy, great mentality, great attitude," Pochettino stated, emphasizing that the mistakes were part of the game. He highlighted the positive aspects, such as the team’s ability to create chances after falling behind, a weakness in previous cycles. Midfielder Tyler Adams echoed this sentiment, noting the team’s improved ability to generate opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Early Lead, Quick Collapse: The USMNT scored within the first minute but conceded two goals in a span of less than three minutes due to defensive errors.
- Defensive Vulnerabilities: Goalkeeper Matt Freese and midfielder Johnny Cardoso were involved in the first Turkish goal, while Miles Robinson’s clearance led to the second.
- Pochettino’s Optimism: Despite the third consecutive loss, Coach Pochettino praised the team’s effort and attitude, focusing on the positives for future development.
- Roster Experimentation: The match saw several new players earn their first caps, indicating Pochettino’s intent to build depth and competition ahead of the Gold Cup.
- Gold Cup Preparation: This friendly served as crucial preparation for the CONCACAF Gold Cup, which begins on June 15 for the USMNT against Trinidad and Tobago.
Looking Ahead
The USMNT will face Switzerland on June 10 in their final friendly before the Gold Cup. The team, missing several key veterans, will need to quickly address their defensive issues and improve their finishing to compete effectively in the upcoming tournament. Pochettino’s focus remains on instilling commitment and a strong mentality, hoping that results will follow as the team continues to build towards the 2026 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.
- USMNT scores first but falls to Turkey, SBI Soccer.
- Mistakes cost USMNT in 2-1 loss to Türkiye, Stars and Stripes FC.
- USA sees positives despite 3rd straight loss in Turkey friendly, ESPN.
