Pepi gives Pochettino first USMNT competitive win

United States men’s national team manager Mauricio Pochettino congratulated his side on its 1-0 win over Jamaica in the first leg of the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals, though he noted that the U.S. needs to improve “in all areas.”

The result marked Pochettino’s second win since taking charge back in September, and his first with the U.S. in a competitive match.

“The first step is done,” Pochettino said. “I congratulate my players because, in a difficult situation, they competed really well. I am so pleased. Of course, we need to improve in all the areas.”

The two teams will meet again on Monday in St. Louis to determine which side will advance to the CNL semifinals next March.

The U.S. took an early lead through Ricardo Pepi‘s fifth-minute strike. The Americans almost doubled their advantage early on, with chances from Antonee Robinson and Christian Pulisic.

Matt Turner played a pivotal role in securing the victory, denying Demarai Gray from the penalty spot in the 14th minute after conceding the initial foul.

Although victimized by Jamaica’s Shamar Nicholson in the sequence that led to the penalty, centerbacks Mark McKenzie and Tim Ream delivered some key defensive plays in the second half to preserve the win, as did Yunus Musah, who tackled away Mason Holgate’s close-range attempt in the 66th minute.

“I think we defend well in the second half,” said Pochettino. “We concede some chances that maybe Jamaica can score, but I think overall I am happy in the way that the team competed. We didn’t concede. Now we need to prepare for the second leg in St. Louis. It’s going to be tough because Jamaica, like today, they show it today that they have very good players.”

Pochettino added that his side will need to learn some lessons from the match.

“It’s easier [to learn] when you win the games,” he said. “You can learn fast, but I think yes, tough game. We need to be pleased and now try to design all the strategy and recovery and be ready for Monday.”