Pochettino wants to keep belief high as USA nears history at World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino celebrates with the fans after the game
Mauricio Pochettino celebrates with the fans after the gameIMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Troy Wayrynen

Mauricio Pochettino insisted USA's dreams have not changed for this World Cup as they booked their spot in the round of 32 thanks to a 2-0 win over Australia in Seattle

Their victory, days after their 4-1 thumping of Paraguay, saw them equal two records from previous tournaments.

It was the first time since 1930 that they had won two World Cup games in a row, and they are just one win away from setting a new record for total victories at a World Cup.

Pochettino's side have netted six times in their opening fixtures, conceding just once, putting them in the box seat to qualify as Group D winners, setting themselves up well for the knockout rounds.

Despite this momentum, the USA coach believes the goalposts for success have not moved.

Speaking at his post-match press conference to Flashscore and other assorted media, he remarked: "We need to keep believing, like from day one, that we can win - knowing that we have to work really hard, and at the same time, enjoy the time together. 

"This (win) has not changed my views or my dreams... I think it's much better when you show good performances and win the games... We need to go for the next one."

USA's players celebrate their victory
USA's players celebrate their victoryIMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Troy Wayrynen

Without Christian Pulisic through a calf injury, Pochettino opted to partner Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi up top, using the pair to pin Australia's defence back. It worked well, with Balogun's pace a big part of their first goal.

Pepi, who plays his club football in the Eredivisie for PSV, has struggled with injuries in the last couple of years, but his manager believes he is already a world-beater.

The Argentine added: "Ricardo, for me, is one of the greatest strikers in the world.

"He is getting better and better every day. He can play with another striker, he can play alone, he has an unbelievable capacity to create chances and to score goals. Today, him and Flo (Balogun), they made an unbelievable show for the team."

The USMNT have not played in Seattle since 2016, but have made it a fortress when they come to town. After their win over Australia, they have now won all seven games played in the north-west. In front of a packed crowd, Pochettino admitted he was left emotional after the game as his players celebrated with the fans.

He added: "The warm reception and the way they celebrated the victory, they made me feel very emotional. 

"It was a perfect connection between the energy in the stands and the team. I think that makes us feel very proud because to connect with the people was what we wanted, and if we want to achieve good things, we need the support of our fans."

The USA will now travel back to Los Angeles for their final group game on June 25th, where they will take on Turkey.

Check out the match report from their win in Seattle with Flashscore.

Josh Donaldson is a Global Senior Editor and International Football Specialist for Flashscore. From the UK, now living in Prague, Josh specialises in football and cycling and can be found at an obscure ground watching games or on his bike. You can follow Josh on X and read his articles here.

Josh Donaldson
Josh DonaldsonFlashscore