The USMNT is facing a harsh reality check after a string of disappointing performances, culminating in an ugly 4-0 loss to Switzerland in Nashville. This defeat, just days before the start of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup and a year away from the 2026 World Cup, has sparked serious questions about the team's direction under head coach Mauricio Pochettino. While Pochettino has taken responsibility for the loss, claiming he is "the guilty one here," the issues seem to run deeper than just coaching tactics.
Pochettino's plan to ignite a fire under the first-choice regulars by bringing in a group of players to generate competition within the national-team squad has backfired. The players on the field against Switzerland simply weren't good enough, and it had nothing to do with desire or commitment. Mistakes were made across the pitch, from Matt Turner to the defenders Max Arfsten and Nathan Harriel, while the attacking unit was invisible for much of the game. The lack of chemistry between the attacking midfielders, all products of the Philadelphia Union system, was particularly concerning.
This loss marks the fourth consecutive defeat for the USMNT, a streak not seen since 2007. It's also the first time the team has conceded four goals in the opening 40 minutes of a match on home soil. The team is winless in seven straight matches against European teams, highlighting a persistent struggle against top-tier competition. While key players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tim Weah were absent, a serious national team needs to be able to compete and play well with players who are in contention for the final roster.
The defeat against Switzerland exposed several worrying trends. The team's defense was easily exploited, with the Swiss wingers finding space and causing problems for the USMNT backline. In midfield, Johnny Cardoso struggled to shield the defense, highlighting the team's reliance on Tyler Adams. The attack lacked creativity and struggled to create chances, failing to register a single shot on target.
Pochettino's tactics have also come under scrutiny. His teams play a high line yet don't effectively press, and defensively, the team's shape often leaves acres of space for opponents to exploit. While it's too early to place all the blame on Pochettino, he hasn't yet found a way to fix the problems that have plagued the USMNT for the past year. The team has not evolved since the 2022 World Cup, and there are more questions than answers heading into the Gold Cup and, more importantly, the 2026 World Cup.
The pressure is now mounting on Pochettino to turn things around quickly. The Gold Cup represents the final tournament opportunity to prepare for the World Cup, and a slow start could lead to uncomfortable conversations about his future. It's time for Pochettino to reassess his approach, motivate the players, and find a way to unlock the team's potential. The USMNT needs a clear plan and a strong performance in the Gold Cup to restore confidence and get back on track for the World Cup.
