USMNT’s rout of Jamaica reveals progress under new coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Although Jamaica had a moment of fortune when Tim Weah’s powerful fourth-minute shot struck the inside of Andre Blake’s post and bounced away, the Americans quickly asserted dominance. Christian Pulisic opened the scoring, followed by another goal that was later credited as an own goal. Before the first half concluded, Ricardo Pepi solidified the hosts’ place in next year’s semifinals.
At times, Jamaica appeared overwhelmed, reduced to mere spectators as the U.S. team executed a series of rapid, precise passes. For a USMNT that had previously struggled during the 2024 Copa América and in Pochettino’s initial games, this performance was a refreshing change.
“Just about perfect,” was how U.S. captain Tim Ream described the first half. “We discussed our movements and dynamics at halftime, ensuring everyone was involved from the start. It was exactly what we aimed for.”
Even the meticulous Pochettino expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance.
“I think we all saw the style of play we want to adopt,” the new head coach remarked.
The atmosphere in City Park, one of the nation’s storied soccer venues, was electric. If this match served as a glimpse into the U.S. team’s potential ahead of the FIFA World Cup on home soil, it was a promising sign.
However, the second half revealed that the U.S. team still has areas for improvement under Pochettino’s guidance. To make a significant impact in 2026, they will need to address these shortcomings.
Pochettino noted, “The challenge in the second half was to win that period.” Unfortunately, his team fell short, with Jamaican winger Demarai Gray scoring two goals compared to Weah’s one. “It was concerning that we didn’t maintain the same mentality into the second half. There are still aspects we need to refine.”
Despite this, it is difficult to criticize the overall performance. The Americans had a commanding lead in the series at 4-0 before Jamaica managed to score. A slight letdown may have been expected. However, Pochettino, who has managed top clubs like Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Tottenham Hotspur, is known for his high expectations.
When asked about the team’s fast start, Weah attributed it to their coach. “Honestly, it’s the coach,” he stated. “We listened to his instructions in training and applied them on the field. He gives us the freedom to play.”
Pochettino has already raised the bar for expectations within the squad.
“You can’t be satisfied with the second half,” Ream acknowledged. “But scoring four goals and five across two games while advancing to the semifinals is a positive outcome.”
This victory was particularly significant against a seasoned opponent. Jamaica, despite missing top striker Michail Antonio, featured five players from England’s prestigious Premier League. Just nine months prior, this same Jamaican team nearly defeated the U.S. at home in the semifinals of the 2023-24 Nations League, with a last-minute own goal allowing the Americans to survive and eventually secure their third consecutive Nations League title. The recent win marked only the second competitive victory for the USMNT in Jamaica.
“It was crucial for us to start strong and secure a good result in Jamaica,” Pulisic stated. “It wasn’t an easy match, and our team performance showcased our resilience and versatility.”
After a challenging 2024, this match provided a solid conclusion to the year. The full-strength U.S. team will not regroup until the Nations League final four in March. They recognize that their journey under Pochettino is just beginning, but this month’s victories have provided a boost in confidence and a foundation to build upon as they approach 2025.
Pochettino emphasized the importance of player fitness moving forward. “My only advice is to take care of yourselves. We need to be stronger in March.”
That message has resonated within the team.
“We’re in a good position now,” Pulisic remarked. “However, we have more significant matches ahead, and we must keep improving.”
