Mauricio Pochettino is “so happy” that UMSNT starts a new era with a win

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — U.S. men's national team manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his team's “professional performance” in a 2-0 win over Panama that gave him a win in his first game as coach.

The USA prevailed in the 49th minute through Yunus Musah, who received a centered pass from clubmate Christian Pulisic and side-footed a shot straight into the Panama goal.

The USMNT then had to overcome some nervous moments as goalkeeper Matt Turner made a fantastic double save three minutes after Musah's goal and then saw a great chance for Panamanian striker José Fajardo in the 87th minute, which he was able to convert and shoot wide.

Four minutes into stoppage time, substitute Ricardo Pepi secured the game for the USA with a cool finish after an assist from Haji Wright.

“I think it was a very professional performance and I think we are happy because I think we scored all the goals that we said before the game and I think it is an important win,” said Pochettino told reporters. “And starting this phase with a win is always very helpful.”

“Yes, so happy. Happy because I see that the staff and players put on a fantastic show and of course with the help of the fans here in Austin.”

Pochettino, who was hired last month to replace Gregg Berhalter, added that it was “amazing” how well the U.S. players understood things considering they had only spent a few days together. He expects that area of ​​the U.S. team to improve, especially ahead of Tuesday's game against arch-rival Mexico in Guadalajara.

“I think it’s the foundation for the first step to grow and get better,” he said. “Now we have a few days to recover, see, analyze and evaluate all the players and make the best decision for the team and the players who will play another difficult game on Tuesday.”

Pochettino also praised the near-capacity crowd of 20,239 at the Q2 Stadium, noting a banner behind one of the goals that featured his face.

“It was a massive shock for me to see my face behind the goal, as you say, and a completely different picture,” he said. “I think I’m so happy; very good connection with the fans.”

“It's really important to create that connection between the team and the fans, that's really important. The players need to feel the support.”

Pochettino deployed Musah on the right, an unusual position for him, at least in the US team. For the US coach, it was all about boosting Musah's confidence as he has only played 147 minutes for AC Milan this season.

“He doesn’t play much. I think he hasn't felt comfortable in this situation in the last few games,” Pochettino said. “When he arrived we chatted and… tried to build his confidence, maybe by starting in a different position than he had in the past. I think it was a good decision.”

“I think he's always trying to build up his confidence and feel again that he's a player who can perform on the pitch.”

And on Musah's goal, Pochettino added: “Fantastic for him, fantastic for the team and now maybe he starts to show and behave differently, (where he is) full of confidence. That’s the most important thing in our decision (to) try to help.”

The goal was also announced by his Milan colleague.

“I told him it was because of my goal instinct. He was watching me,” said Pulisic, who has scored five goals in seven Serie A games this season. “He learned a thing or two. But honestly, this moment… it’s great to see.”

One player who didn't play was Weston McKennie. Pochettino stated that the Juventus midfielder was not 100% fit and was being held as a precaution.

“We wanted to protect him,” Pochettino said, although there is a possibility McKennie will play against Mexico.

Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.