Christian Pulisic’s frustration was palpable after the final whistle. The US Men’s National Team had just been held to a 1-1 draw by New Zealand in a friendly match, a result that underscored the work ahead for new coach Mauricio Pochettino.
The match, which took place just 30 minutes after the US Soccer Federation announced Pochettino as the new head coach, saw a late defensive lapse cost the Americans a victory. Pulisic had put the US ahead in the 69th minute, his 31st international goal, moving him past Brian McBride for fifth on the US career scoring list. However, a sloppy clearance by Caleb Wiley and Mark McKenzie allowed Ben Waine to equalize in the 89th minute.
The draw marked the US’s fourth consecutive game without a win, and their first home draw against New Zealand in 10 years. The match also marked the second game under interim coach Mikey Varas, who took over following the firing of Gregg Berhalter after the Americans’ disappointing first-round elimination from the Copa America.
“It’s time to turn the page and we really have to pick it up a level,” Pulisic said after the match. “Everyone is part of this and it feels pretty low right now, but I know there’s better times ahead.”
Pochettino, who arrives in the US on Wednesday, will officially take over ahead of exhibitions against Panama in Austin, Texas, on October 12 and Mexico three days later. “Everybody is excited for this next chapter. He brings tremendous quality,” Varas said. “I’m proud that we moved the program forward a little bit. And Mauricio coming, now it’s going to be accelerated, and I think really good things are ahead of us.”
Despite the disappointing result, there were positives for the US. The goal was a result of a beautiful 11-pass buildup that showcased the team’s attacking potential. Pulisic’s goal, a sliding left-foot shot that found the back of the net, was a reminder of his individual brilliance.
However, the defense, which has been a persistent concern for the US, exposed itself yet again. The team’s lack of cohesion and communication was evident in the build-up to New Zealand’s goal.
With Pochettino’s arrival, a new era begins for the US men’s national team. He will be tasked with building a team that is not only talented but also resilient and capable of competing at the highest level. Pulisic, for one, is hopeful. “Hopefully a culture that is willing to fight, that is willing to take risks,” he said. “There’s a lot of things that need to change, just the mentality and the culture of the group. I think we have the quality but I know hopefully that’s the first thing that he is going to want to change.”
The pressure is on Pochettino to deliver success. The US is hoping he can lead them to glory at the 2026 World Cup, which will be held on home soil. The journey begins now, and the US will be looking to turn the page and start a new chapter under their new leader.
