Mauricio Pochettino Makes Statement After USMNT Loss originally appeared on Athlon Sports. On Saturday, the United States Men's National Team lost its third straight match in all competitions under head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — Not for the first time, U.S. men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino arrived at a post-match press conference after a loss, this time a 2-1 defeat to Turkiye in the first of two friendlies that will precede the Gold Cup. There was one thing he was relieved about, though.

Turkey won more duels, aerial duels, and had a higher success rate of tackles against the Americans, who seemed to lose the mentality game and intensity as the match progressed -- despite the fact that the home side had plenty more possession that led to substandard half chances.