US Soccer faced off against Panama in the semi-finals of the Nations League on Thursday night. The US had won the tournament every single time since its creation in 2019 entering 2025. For the first time, we will not be lifting the trophy, after Team USA lost to Panama 1-0.
Heading into the game the US had won 5 of 6 games under newly appointed manager Maurcio Pochettino. The team and players seemed to be responding well to Pochettino and the results showed it.
USA was heavy favorites against Panama and dominated them the whole game, holding 66% possession and taking 12 shots to Panamas three. Although the possession and shots was lopsided, there was still a lack of big chances from the US.
The game overall was not super exciting. There were not many moments that got me off my couch for the first 90 minutes of play. Overall the US was lacking any real flair or creativity preventing them from taking the lead.
In the 94th minute, Panama’s Celio Waterman stunned the US by scoring the winner. It was the only shot Panama had on target all game.
Being a fan and following the US Men’s National Team truthfully only brings headaches and disappointment. It feels every time we take a step forward, we then go and take two steps back.
No one was a bigger advocate for former USA manager Greg Berhalter to be sacked following both our World Cup performance in 2022 and Copa America exit last summer than myself. With that, no one was more excited for the hire of new manager Mauricio Pochettino than I was. However still is left to be desired as a fan.
This loss was a real wake up call as a fan. Greg Berhalter, for the longest time, has been an easy scapegoat for our countries struggles. The issues clearly lie much deeper than the manager.
We have an abundance of money, resources, and talent to become a top country in the sport. For some reason we fail to take advantage of it.
There is no culture in both the team and the fans. Europeans take great pride in mocking US fans for our antics and lack of passion in the sport and ultimately they are right. The game was held in Los Angeles at SoFi Stadium and the pictures of the stadium showed what looked to be less than 20% filled. It is embarrassing.
The team has no confidence and cutting edge in their play. They do not have a style of play, and can’t take advantage of any crucial moments.
Every country that has seen success in soccer can be identified by a style they buy into and successfully execute. Brazil is known for dribbling and creativity. Spain is known for their possession and control. Italy has their defense.
What is the US known for?
When it comes to development it is even worse. The sport is growing at a rapid pace in America. Over 14 million children play the sport and it is growing every year. We limit our talent pool by making it so expensive to join a club, ultimately alienating a population of children who simply cannot afford to pay thousands of dollars to play on a team.
The whole system needs a complete dismantling from the bottom to the top. I still have faith and am very excited about Pochettino for the future. However, if we want to see any real improvement long-term, a lot needs to change.
I am extremely excited heading into the 2026 World Cup although a lot of work needs to be done if we really do want to see success in the tournament. The loss to Panama should be a big enough wake up call to everyone involved in the team.
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