The coach of the USA team, Mauricio Pochettino, explained why he expects a tough game against Australia. Recall that both teams won their matches in the first round of the 2026 World Cup.
“What I can note about Australia is obvious: their style of play,” said the USA coach. “But for me, it is primarily mentality, attitude, and belief. This is a very strong team that truly believes in what they do.
When we played against them in Denver [USA’s 2:1 victory in October last year], it was one of the toughest games we have played during this entire period up to today. They had many good moments, but I think it is obvious that Turkey really saw their ability to defend in the middle and lower parts of the field. When they switch to pressing, they press high and transition to attack with the help of very fast players.
They build their game differently, using formations with three and two defenders, with four and one. I saw flexibility in their play, which makes it difficult to prepare for a match against Australia because they have different tactical schemes.
But for me, the most important thing is how well we can match their cohesion and mentality, the mindset that makes them very dangerous. We must believe in the same things they believe in if we want to compete with them.”
“For me, the attitude is important, the attitude of their coach, Popovich. I talked to him, and I really appreciate him and like him a lot. It is difficult to play against a team that truly believes in what they do. That is what I like about this Australia.”
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