Mauricio Pochettino did two things in rapid succession during the USMNT’s match against Paraguay: he celebrated an own goal like a man possessed, then immediately grabbed Tyler Adams to bark tactical instructions while everyone else was still high-fiving.
The Argentine coach, appointed to lead the US Men’s National Team in 2024, is treating every second of match time as a classroom. And with the 2026 FIFA World Cup being hosted on American soil, the stakes extend well beyond the pitch, deep into the world of crypto sponsorships and fan engagement platforms that are betting big on this tournament.
Pochettino’s sideline intensity meets World Cup preparation
Adams, who plays for AFC Bournemouth, has become a central figure in Pochettino’s system. The midfielder has spoken publicly about the cultural shift happening within the national team under the new coach’s leadership.
Pochettino announced his 26-player roster on May 26, 2026. The Paraguay match served as both a competitive fixture and a live laboratory for his ideas.
