United States coach Mauricio Pochettino has called on fans to believe in his team ahead of their World Cup clash with Australia, saying changing the mindset around the national side remains one of his biggest priorities.
Speaking on the eve of the match, he said his focus since arriving with the squad has been to build confidence within the team and among supporters.
“All my conversations with the team over the past few weeks have been about what it means for us to be here, especially in terms of changing the team’s mindset,” Pochettino said. “We have to let people and fans believe in us, that’s the most important thing.”
The former Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain manager said the tournament represents a significant opportunity for football in the United States. “Many people are helping football to grow here in the USA,” he said.
“I believe our players are playing a key role in this, as are players who have joined the MLS, such as Leo Messi.” Pochettino also extended his support to Lionel Messi and his family following reports that the Argentina captain’s father, Jorge Messi, is unwell.
“Messi is the best without any shadow of a doubt,” he said. “Argentina have a great squad, a fantastic manager and incredible fans. But my thoughts are with Leo’s family, because I know they’re going through a difficult time.”
Midfielder Weston McKennie echoed his coach’s views on the importance of the tournament, saying the team has a responsibility to inspire a new generation of supporters. “There were lots of people at the stadium during the first match – some were there because they love football, but for others it was their first time at a match,” McKennie said.
“I hope that what we showed on the pitch with our performance really moved people.” “And I hope the same will happen tomorrow. We know that we are responsible for the growth of this sport here in America.”
“The fans who come to the stadium to watch the team, hearing the national anthem, knowing you have people on your side supporting you – all of it inspires us.” “Even when you’re tired, you can hear them cheering you on for a tackle or to make something happen – the adrenaline kicks in.”
Defender Sergino Dest believes the World Cup could help transform football’s profile in the country if the team continues to perform well. “This World Cup could certainly change the way football is perceived here, and a lot depends on how far we get,” Dest said. “I believe that if we carry on playing as we did against Paraguay, we’ll achieve our goal of doing that.”
Seattle Sounders captain Cristian Roldan, who will effectively be playing at home, highlighted the city’s passion for the sport and its significance as a host venue. “It will be the most important match this city has ever hosted,” Roldan said.
“I spoke to the team about how much Seattle loves football.” “Tomorrow they will feel the excitement of the fans and the energy they send to us.” “I’m delighted for this city, because they have such a deep passion for sport and football.”
Despite the optimism surrounding the team, Pochettino warned against underestimating Australia. “It will be a very difficult match tomorrow,” he said. “Australia are a strong team and have a great coach.” “They have come on so much in recent years, and we mustn’t underestimate but respect them.”
“At the same time, we want to beat them and we’re ready to give it our all.” “We’ll need to approach it as we did in the match against Paraguay.”
