USA Reach Round of 32: Pochettino Says ‘Belief Stays High’
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| Pochettino praises Balogun-Pepi duo after USA seal round of 32 spot |
USMNT are 2-0 at the World Cup for first time since 1930. Pochettino reacts to USA 2-0 Australia, Seattle fortress record, and keeping focus high with Turkey next.
Pochettino: USA World Cup goals unchanged after 2-0 win over Australia...
Mauricio Pochettino says USA’s World Cup ambitions remain unchanged after they sealed a place in the round of 32 with a 2-0 win over Australia in Seattle.
The win came days after the USMNT routed Paraguay 4-1. It also tied two records set in earlier World Cups.
The USA won back-to-back World Cup matches for the first time since 1930, and one more win would give them a new record for most victories at a single tournament.
Pochettino’s team has scored 6 goals in 2 games and only let in 1. That puts them in control of Group D and in a strong position heading into the knockouts.
Even with that momentum, the US coach says their target for the tournament hasn’t changed.
Speaking at his post-match press conference and other assorted media, he remarked: “We need to keep believing, like from day one, that we can win - knowing that we have to work really hard, and at the same time, enjoy the time together.
“This (win) has not changed my views or my dreams... I think it's much better when you show good performances and win the games... We need to go for the next one.”
With Christian Pulisic sidelined by a calf issue, Pochettino started Folarin Balogun alongside Ricardo Pepi. The duo pushed Australia’s back line deep, and Balogun’s speed was key to setting up the opener.
Pepi spends his club season with PSV in the Eredivisie. Injuries have hampered him the last few years, but Pochettino still rates him as elite - a player he already sees as world-class.
The Argentine added: “Ricardo, for me, is one of the greatest strikers in the world.
“He is getting better and better every day. He can play with another striker, he can play alone, he has an unbelievable capacity to create chances and to score goals. Today, him and Flo (Balogun), they made an unbelievable show for the team.”
USA hadn’t played in Seattle since 2016, but Lumen Field has become a stronghold. Their 2-0 win over Australia means they’re now 7-0 in the north-west. With a full stadium behind them, Pochettino said he got emotional watching his team celebrate with the fans after the final whistle.
He added: “The warm reception and the way they celebrated the victory, they made me feel very emotional.
“It was a perfect connection between the energy in the stands and the team. I think that makes us feel very proud because to connect with the people was what we wanted, and if we want to achieve good things, we need the support of our fans.”
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