USMNT beats Jamaica to earn spot in CONCACAF Nations League semifinals



CNN

The United States Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) booked its place in next year’s CONCACAF Nations League semifinals with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Jamaica in St. Louis, Missouri, Monday night.

The victory ensured an overall victory of 5-2 Reggae Boyz after a tough game in Jamaica ended 1-0 to USA last week.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side opened up a 3-0 lead in the first half thanks to Christian Pulisic’s brace and Ricardo Pepi’s low strike from outside the box.

Demarai Gray pulled a goal back for Jamaica early in the second half before Timothy Weah extended the USA’s lead to three again just minutes later.

Gray got his and Jamaica’s second with just over 20 minutes remaining, but it wasn’t enough to spark a comeback, with the USMNT’s victory also confirming its place in next year’s Gold Cup, North America’s premier international tournament.

“We came out really hot,” Pulisic said after the game, according to ESPN. “We should definitely feel good after these results. We’re obviously learning a lot of new things with the new coach.”

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino, now in charge for two months, was delighted with his side’s first-half performance.

“I’m so happy,” Pochettino told ESPN. “The first 45 minutes is the way we will grow, build our journey together and I think it was great to see the players perform.

“In a short period, and with not too (much) time to work, I think the way they adapt and receive all the concepts and the way we try to play, I think they show that we have incredible players with the ability to understand quickly, learn quickly and that’s because (of) our talented players.”

Mauricio Pochettino took charge of the US men's team two months ago.

Former Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain coach Pochettino was hired to run the U.S. men’s team ahead of a home World Cup in 2026.

The Americans suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to bitter rivals Mexico in the last international window, but Pochettino said he is “so pleased” with how his players have become “one team” in his two months in charge.

“We have to be desperate to get to March and be all together,” he added. “It’s a sign that we’re improving a lot, and then we’re starting to feel like we’re a real group of people, that we’re going to fight for something special.”