Pochettino defends group win after US loss to Turkey

U.S. men’s national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino left his post-match press conference briskly after the United States fell 3-2 to Turkey in the final group-stage match, noting that the loss did not affect the team’s position as Group D winners. The United States had already secured six points and the top spot after earlier victories over Wales and Australia, allowing Pochettino to rotate most of his lineup for the Turkey game.

"It cannot be possible that Turkey celebrates three points, Australia celebrates getting through, Paraguay celebrates getting through… for you to not say congratulations for winning the group, it’s a little bit sad," Pochettino said, adding that the team had already clinched first place.

"I need to remind everyone we won the group, sorry guys, we won," he continued before exiting the room.

Pochettino expressed frustration with reporters’ focus on the match’s momentum, questioning the relevance of such inquiries given the secured group victory. He compared the situation to Germany’s loss to Ecuador, noting that a change in momentum did not necessarily dictate future performance.

The United States fielded a largely rotated side, with only Ricardo Pepi and Weston McKennie retaining their starts from the Australia win. Star forward Christian Pulisic entered in the 58th minute, marking his return after a calf injury in the opening match. Pochettino said the objective was to give Pulisic 30-40 minutes, and praised his impact.

Despite the defeat, the U.S. finished the group stage with its best-ever record, matching the 1930 team’s six points. The next round-of-32 match will be against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara, California, where Pochettino said the team is now stronger and ready for the challenge.