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    • USMNT's first-half struggles against Mexico disappoint fans in Pochettino's 2nd game | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors
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    USMNT's first-half struggles against Mexico disappoint fans in Pochettino's 2nd game | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

    Kathleen William Posted on

    USA midfielder No. 11 Brenden Aaronson (l) and Mexican defender No. 27 Jesus Angulo fight during the international friendly match between Mexico and the USA at Akron Stadium on October 15, 2024 in Zapopan, Jalisco state, Mexico, for the ball. (Photo by Ulises Ruiz / AFP) (Photo by ULISES RUIZ/AFP via Getty Images)

    ULISES RUIZ/AFP via Getty Images

    Mauricio Pochettino's 2-0 debut win as USMNT coach against Panama on Saturday instilled confidence that the Americans were already on a better path after the lackluster end to the Gregg Berhalter era.

    Tuesday's game against Mexico was completely different, at least for 45 minutes. The USMNT appeared overwhelmed and trailed 1-0 at halftime after a fantastic free kick from Raúl Jiménez.

    B/R football @brfootball

    Raúl Jiménez gave Mexico a 1-0 lead with a perfect free kick 🎯
    Watch Mexico vs USA live on TNT and Max 📺 pic.twitter.com/rja5yJviIY

    The Americans didn't manage a single shot in the first half, while Mexico had 12 (three on goal). The Mexicans had 58.9 percent possession and had five corners, compared to just two for the USA.

    Yes, the Americans were missing key players in Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Ricardo Pepi. And yes, the game was played in Mexico. But that didn't make the first 45 minutes any easier to endure for fans and experts:

    Brian Sciaretta @Brian Sciaretta

    The #USMNT The first 15 minutes were actually quite okay. But after the goal, Mexico had them under control for the rest of the half.
    – 12:0 in shots (3:0 on goal)
    – Ugly last 20 minutes pic.twitter.com/ZLb300X93v

    Taylor Twellman @Taylor Twellman

    A disaster so far. #USMNT

    Herculez Gomez @herculezg

    Mexico is the better team.
    More of a sense of urgency. Physically imposing. Take more risks in the future, don't be afraid.    #USMNT with a lack of pace and ideas in midfield. I can't remember the last time that happened to them.
    More than just a few pedestrian appearances for the USA.

    Maximiliano Bretos @MaxBretosSports

    A truly terrible first half from 🇺🇸, lacking intensity and teamwork.
    Mexico 🇲🇽 raced through the American midfield with ease, outscoring the USA 12-0.
    Luckily we are only 0-1 behind.

    Paul Tenorio @Paul Tenorio

    It wasn't an inspiring first half #USMNT. It will be interesting to see how Pochettino adjusts/changes things in the second half. Something is needed.

    Jeff Carlisle @Jeffrey Carlisle

    Midfield not present #usmnt. Aaronson has to get out. At some point he had to realize that the fouls he expected would not be given.

    USMNT only @usmnonly

    This first half was a brutal sight for the USMNT

    Halftime didn't bring much recovery as Mexico quickly took a 2-0 lead after a counterattack and a USMNT loss of the ball in the penalty area, with César Huerta sinking a shot into the bottom corner.

    The Americans have generally gotten the better of Mexico in this rivalry of late. But after about 50 minutes, Mexico appeared to be on a different planet from its northern neighbors and rivals, much to the chagrin of the optimistic US fan base following Poch's appointment.

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    Kathleen William
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