Pochettino Backs USMNT's High-IQ Squad Before Turkey Match as Team Eyes 3rd Straight Win
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 20
Pochettino Backs USMNT's High-IQ Squad Before Turkey Match as Team Eyes 3rd Straight Win
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 20
Summary
Mauricio Pochettino said the United States' players are smart enough to avoid complacency despite already clinching a knockout-round place before facing eliminated Turkey.
Turkey's exit and the U.S. berth could invite a letdown, but Pochettino said players and staff must stay "very tough" on themselves and keep pushing standards higher.
Fatigue is shaping his thinking after the win over Australia, with Pochettino saying the team had many tired bodies in the first half both physically and mentally.
Team selection remains open for the Turkey game, with the coach not ruling out changes while stressing the focus should stay on the collective rather than individual names.