Pochettino Challenges USMNT Fans: "Match the Passion of Argentina and Brazil Supporters"

Mauricio Pochettino has urged supporters to increase their backing of the U.S. men's national soccer team as World Cup 2026 preparations advance—particularly by showing up to matches in larger numbers to forge stronger connections with the squad.

Following a 2–1 victory over Paraguay in Chester, Pennsylvania during the November international break, the Argentine coach made an impassioned appeal to fans for more passionate support leading into next summer's competition.

"In Argentina, the national team comes before any individual. In Brazil, it's identical. In England, it's the same. In Spain, likewise," Pochettino told media after the match. "This holds true everywhere. We require our supporters to rally behind and champion the national squad. We must establish that connection."

Though the match recorded an official attendance of 17,224, it represented the 15th different venue where the U.S. has competed in 2025. Simultaneously, numerous supporters voiced frustrations on social media regarding ticket costs, which have remained a persistent issue for many fans.

"Our supporters must embrace being fans of the USA men's national team and rally behind our badge, our flag, our colors. That's what matters most," Pochettino emphasized. "Who should be celebrated? The squad. The team deserves to be the hero. If we can draw our fans to back us, we can forge an excellent [bond] and become incredibly powerful.

"The players require that energy from supporters. This is crucial, so that's my appeal to our fanbase."

Pochettino Doubles Down on Previous Calls for More

This isn't the initial instance of Pochettino expressing disappointment with American fans. In September, during an emotional press conference following a 2–0 defeat to South Korea at Sports Illustrated Stadium—before a predominantly Korean-supporting audience—he implored Americans to "please attend" and back the national team ahead of next year's competition.

That defeat represented the final loss before the USMNT began their ongoing five-match unbeaten streak.

"Please attend more [matches]," Pochettino pleaded with supporters after that game, which marked the USMNT's seventh defeat against a top 30 nation in their previous eight encounters. "My appeal to the fans is that we'll reach the World Cup in peak form and we'll be challenging to overcome."

Optimism remains that World Cup crowds will heavily favor the USMNT, as the United States has topped global World Cup ticket purchases through the initial ticketing phases