AUSTIN, Texas — The U.S. men’s national team kicked off the Mauricio Pochettino era with a convincing 2-0 win over Panama in Saturday’s friendly match at the nearly full Q2 Stadium.
Midfielder Yunus Musah, a promising 21-year-old who has already made a mark in the World Cup, scored the decisive goal — his first in 42 appearances for the USMNT — following a brilliant assist from U.S. star and AC Milan player Christian Pulisic just four minutes into the second half. Substitute Ricardo Pepi sealed the victory with another goal deep into stoppage time.
Here are several key takeaways from Pochettino’s successful debut as head coach.
Play of the game
Musah’s first international goal was a moment long awaited by fans and teammates alike. The sequence began with center back Tim Ream, who wore the captain’s armband under Pochettino’s guidance, passing to left back Antonee “Jedi” Robinson deep in Panama’s territory. Robinson skillfully maneuvered past former New York Red Bulls defender Michael Murillo before finding Pulisic. After a quick exchange with Brenden Aaronson, Pulisic regained control and delivered a precise pass to Musah, who redirected it past Panama’s goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera from close range.
Turning point
Just three minutes after Musah’s goal, Panama came close to equalizing. U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner, who has been pivotal for the national team this season, showcased his skills by making a spectacular save against Édgar Bárcenas. He followed up by denying José Luis Rodríguez’s rebound shot from point-blank range, preserving the lead and contributing to Pochettino’s first win.
Key stat
Despite the expectation that the U.S. would dominate the first half under their new coach, the statistics tell a different story. The U.S. slightly edged Panama in various categories, including shots (6-5), possession (57% to 43%), passes (308-237), and passing accuracy (90% to 86%).
Both Mosquera and Turner recorded a single save in the first half, with Mosquera making a remarkable diving stop on Aaronson’s shot to keep the match scoreless just before halftime.
What’s next for Panama?
Los Canaleros will head north to face Concacaf rival Canada on Tuesday in Toronto.
Meanwhile, the U.S. will prepare for a much-anticipated showdown against their historical rival, El Tri, at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, on Tuesday night. While Saturday’s victory was a welcome change after a winless September and a disappointing Copa América performance, the upcoming match will present a more formidable challenge. The U.S. has managed just one victory against Mexico on their home turf in 28 encounters since 1937.
