U.S. coach Pochettino pleased with 'fantastic' Pepi, Balogun pairing

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   USMNT advances to World Cup 2026 knockout stage as Group D winners

   The United States reached the knockout rounds after winning Group D. The team earned a program-best six points and scored a record eight goals during the group stage. Folarin Balogun credited the success to Mauricio Pochettino's coaching style.

   What's confirmed:

   • The USMNT advanced to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 as winners of Group D.
   • The team achieved a program-best six points and a record eight goals in the group stage.
   • The United States defeated Australia 2-0.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Ricardo Pepi had previously struggled to make an impression under Pochettino due to injuries, except for a strong Nations League game against Jamaica.
   • Folarin Balogun is enjoying the stage with the USMNT.
   confidence 90%
2. 3d ago

   Pochettino praises tactical flexibility after U.S. win over Australia

   The United States defeated Australia 2-0 at Lumen Field in Seattle to reach the World Cup knockout rounds. Manager Mauricio Pochettino called the team "fantastic" and praised their tactical flexibility. The victory occurred despite a calf injury to star attacker Christian Pulisic.

   What's confirmed:

   • The U.S. national team beat Australia 2-0 to secure a spot in the World Cup knockout stage.
   • Mauricio Pochettino described the team as "fantastic."
   • The match took place at Lumen Field in Seattle.
   • Christian Pulisic missed the game due to a calf injury.
   confidence 100%
3. 6d ago

   Pochettino Praises Pepi and Balogun After U.S. Advances to World Cup Knockouts

   The U.S. national team secured a spot in the World Cup knockout round with a 2-0 victory over Australia. Coach Mauricio Pochettino described the attacking pairing of Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun as "fantastic." The team advanced to the Round of 32 despite the absence of injured forward Christian Pulisic.

   What's confirmed:

   • The U.S. beat Australia 2-0 to advance to the World Cup knockout round.
   • Mauricio Pochettino called the pairing of Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun "fantastic".
   • The U.S. advanced to the Round of 32 without injured forward Christian Pulisic.
   • The U.S. victory over Australia was its second straight win.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • The U.S. soccer strategy involved the Pentagon.
   • Pochettino believes the U.S. can win the World Cup.
   confidence 90%