Pochettino Labels US World Cup Group Matches ‘Cup Finals’

United States manager Mauricio Pochettino has played down talk of a long World Cup run, insisting his team’s focus must remain solely on surviving the group stage despite a draw that has fuelled optimism among fans and pundits alike.

Speaking in Washington after the draw placed the US in Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and a European qualifier yet to be confirmed, the Argentine coach stressed that no match could be taken lightly.

The Americans have reasons for confidence following recent victories over both Paraguay and Australia, winning 2-1 in each of their latest encounters. Still, Pochettino believes those results will count for little once the tournament begins.

While television analysts such as Alexi Lalas have already spoken of a potential semi-final appearance, Pochettino rejected any suggestion of easing expectations.

Instead, he said his players must approach each fixture as though it were a decisive contest, starting with the opening match against Paraguay in Los Angeles on June 12.

He explained that, unlike reigning champions such as Argentina, who may be able to look beyond the group phase, the United States must treat every game as a make-or-break moment.

According to the former Tottenham boss, the first match must feel like the World Cup final, and the same mentality must apply to the second and third.

Pochettino also played down the significance of the recent head-to-head wins over their group rivals, warning that much can change in six months and that any past results offer no real advantage or disadvantage in competing.

The coach revealed that he has been drawing inspiration from the 2004 film Miracle, which recounts the United States’ unlikely triumph at the 1980 Winter Olympics.

He said he intends to build his squad according to the philosophy portrayed by coach Herb Brooks in the movie: selecting the right blend of players rather than simply the most talented individuals.

Pochettino added that the aim is to create a balanced and resilient squad capable of competing with any opponent on the world stage, regardless of reputation or ranking.