Mauricio Pochettino expressed frustration over questions about the absence of key players after his team, the United States, convincingly defeated Uruguay 5-1 in a friendly match. The game at Raymond James
Stadium saw the US deliver one of their best performances under Pochettino, with four goals scored in the first half.
Despite missing several regulars like Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams due to injuries, Pochettino's squad showcased their depth. Sebastian Berhalter opened the scoring in the 17th minute, followed by two quick goals from Alexander Freeman. Diego Luna added another before halftime. Giorgian de Arrascaeta scored for Uruguay just before the break.
The US team maintained control even after Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off for Uruguay in the second half. Tanner Tessmann secured the victory with a final goal. This win extended their unbeaten streak to five games under Pochettino's leadership, yet he was visibly upset at full-time.
Pochettino addressed reporters' comments about playing with a "second-string" side. He stated, "I don't want to be negative, no, but I hate, I hate that, 'not regular players. ' What [does it] mean? It's USA playing, it's the national team. Stop with that mindset. "
The starting line-up against Uruguay averaged only 14.1 caps per player, marking it as one of the least experienced USMNT teams since October 2005 against Panama. However, this did not hinder them from achieving a historic feat by scoring five goals against a non-CONCACAF team for only the fifth time ever.
5 - The #USMNT has scored five goals against a team from outside Concacaf for the fifth time in team history, the first since a 5-1 win over Scotland in May 2012 and the first against a CONMEBOL opponent. Rout. pic.twitter.com/sz63nCTVjZ
OptaJack(@OptaJack) November 19, 2025
This was also their first such achievement against a CONMEBOL opponent and marked only their second instance of scoring four goals in the first half against a non-CONCACAF team since Ghana in 2023.
Pochettino's Vision for Team Development
Pochettino had previously emphasized that no World Cup roster spot was guaranteed. After this victory, he expressed satisfaction with how November's training camp unfolded: "I am really, really happy because the reality is much better [than] what you think. " He acknowledged there is still work ahead but stressed belief and perseverance are key.
The Argentine coach praised his team's unity and connection on and off the field as crucial factors contributing to their success. His focus remains on fostering this cohesion as they prepare for future challenges.
