Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT Worry Fans with Shaky Performance in Loss to South Korea

The United States Men's National Team dug itself into an early hole against South Korea and couldn't climb out, ultimately falling 2-0 after two first-half goals decided the match.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT have underwhelmed over the past year, prompting growing concern among fans that the team's talent is being squandered. 

The U.S. most recently suffered a 2-1 loss to Mexico in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final in July. Its struggles in international friendlies date back to June, with back-to-back losses to Switzerland and Turkey.

Poor form carried into Saturday's match against South Korea. Former Tottenham Hotspur star Son Heung-Min opened the scoring in the 18th minute, followed by a 43rd-minute goal from Lee Dong-Gyeong off a Son assist.

USMNT standouts Christian Pulisic, Diego Luna and Timothy Weah struggled to find any rhythm, as they were effectively shut down with minimal shot attempts between them. Despite recording 17 total shots, the U.S. managed just five on target and failed to find the back of the net, even with six corner kicks.

South Korea, on the other hand, was far more efficient — finishing with five total shots, four on target, and two goals.

The United States will look to break its international friendly skid when it faces Japan on Tuesday.