HARRISON, N.J. – Nine months out from a World Cup, expecting national teams to be poised is unrealistic, notably in a friendly where adaptability should be prioritized. Yet, teams competing for the World Cup should hint at what is to come, and for the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT), this involved the “organized chaos” that head coach Mauricio Pochettino envisions. However, as the USMNT faltered to a 2-0 defeat against South Korea on Saturday, that organization and intended chaos were notably absent.

Pochettino’s USMNT has now succumbed to loss in seven of their last 17 matches. Each game becomes a critical opportunity for fringe players, clouding the team’s strategic objectives. Despite having a blend of established veterans and unexpected players, the team’s fluctuating individual performances muddle the plan they aim to establish. After a futile attempt against South Korea, hopes for improvement seem dim.

“I think we should learn a lot,” Pochettino stated after the match, attempting to highlight the positives.

The USMNT managed to outshoot South Korea 17-5, creating a 2.27 expected goals versus a mere 0.74 from their opponents. During the second half, Pochettino switched to a back three, but they let only one shot on target go through. Despite this, South Korea took full advantage of their chance and came out on top.

“Overall, I think we were better than South Korea but [in] the end, if you are not clinical in your own area, it becomes difficult,” said Pochettino.

The head coach is running out of chances to test his players ahead of the World Cup. An exit well before expectations are met could cost him his role… As preparations for 2026 draw closer, USMNT still needs to overcome longstanding issues.

An ongoing theme of inconsistency is harming their ambitions as they seek a cohesive unit. Time is shrinking; the urgency is palpable.