Pochettino praises US players' intelligence after World Cup advance
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 11:43 PM
Last updated Jun 19, 2026
US coach Mauricio Pochettino acknowledged the intelligence of his players following their advancement to the World Cup knockout stage after a 2-0 victory over Australia. The match, held on June 19 in Seattle, featured an own goal and a header from Alex Freeman, marking a significant achievement for the team. Pochettino emphasized the need for his squad to maintain high standards ahead of their upcoming game against Turkey. With the victory, the US could secure the top spot in Group D depending on other results that day.
- •US beats Australia 2-0 in World Cup group stage match.
- •Pochettino highlights players' high footballing IQ.
- •The US could clinch Group D top spot with other results.
- •Next match against Turkey is scheduled for next week.
- •Fans show strong support during victory celebration.
- 11:43 PMYahoo Sports — Pochettino backs 'high IQ' players to block out World Cup hype
"US coach Mauricio Pochettino backed his "high IQ" players not to get carried away after they secured progress to the World Cup knockouts with Friday's win over Australia and sent fans' hopes soaring.Pochettino himself has dared fans to dream of winning the World Cup, repeatedly asking "Why not us?"
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