Story by
Pochettino names USA squad for Nations League quarter-finals
- Story by
- Pochettino names USA squad for Nations League quarter-finals
Pochettino names USA squad for Nations League quarter-finals
Mauricio Pochettino has named a 26-man squad for the United States' Concacaf Nations League quarter-final tie against Haiti.
The two-legged encounter marks the USA's return to competitive action following a disappointing World Cup campaign, which ended with a heavy defeat against Belgium. Although the Americans arrive in better form and with fewer injury concerns than rivals Mexico and Canada, the squad selection highlights some lingering questions in key areas.
Advertisement
The returns of Christian Pulisic , Folarin Balogun and Weston McKennie provide a welcome boost to the attack and midfield. Balogun has ended a four-month goalscoring drought, while Pulisic is back after recovering from the leg injury he suffered at the World Cup. However, the winger's relationship with Pochettino remains a talking point, making this international window an important opportunity to reaffirm his place in the team.
There are also questions in goal. Matt Freese , Diego Kochen and Brian Schwake have all been selected, but the USA are still searching for a clear first-choice goalkeeper. Matt Turner 's omission is particularly notable, given his impressive run of form in MLS with New England Revolution.
Pochettino has also included some fresh faces, with Reed Baker-Whiting and Santiago Castañeda in contention to make their international debuts.
The first leg will take place in Miami on 14 November, with Haiti unable to host due to ongoing gang violence in Port-au-Prince. The return fixture is scheduled for 17 November in Cincinnati.
