The U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) faced a challenging pair of friendly matches, losing 5-2 to Belgium and 2-0 to Portugal. These games, while resulting in defeat, served as crucial preparation and a learning experience ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

Lessons Learned from European Competition

The matches were intentionally scheduled against top European teams to gauge the USMNT’s competitiveness. Coach Mauricio Pochettino believes these encounters are essential for growth. “Even if it's painful, it's the only way to improve. It’s the only way to learn,” Pochettino stated on Tuesday. He expressed optimism, adding, “I am more positive now than before… It’s only details we need to improve.”

Finishing and Clinical Play

A key takeaway from the games was the difference in finishing ability between the USMNT and their opponents. While the Americans created scoring opportunities, they struggled to capitalize. Pochettino noted his frustration, stating, “You saw my face when we scored… Because when we scored, it should the third goal, not the first goal.” Belgium and Portugal, conversely, were clinical in converting their chances.

Formation and Defensive Concerns

Pochettino has experimented with different formations during his tenure, initially favoring a 4-2-3-1 and then a 3-4-2-1. Against Belgium and Portugal, he reverted to a four-defender formation, testing seven different starters. The coach acknowledged the team’s relative lack of World Cup-caliber defenders, with players like Trusty, McKenzie, and Freeman gaining experience.

Intensity and Aggression

Pochettino stressed the need for increased intensity and aggression from his team. He compared the current level of play to the discipline required for achieving personal goals, like weight loss. He emphasized that the team must demonstrate the necessary intensity in friendly matches to translate it to the World Cup stage. He noted that a recent France-Colombia friendly was played with “the final of the World Cup” intensity.

Impact of Returning Players

The USMNT is anticipating the return of key players from injury, which will bolster the team’s depth. Midfielder Johnny Cardoso and defender Sergiño Dest have recently faced setbacks, but defender Richards and Antonee Robinson have returned to action. Robinson shared his relief, stating, “There was no certainty on my end that I was going to be fit… But thankfully, I feel like I’m past the point now.”

The USMNT will continue their preparations with an international friendly against Senegal on May 31st in Charlotte, N.C., before beginning their World Cup group stage against Paraguay on June 12th in Los Angeles.