Two days after the U.S. men’s national team faced another disappointing defeat to a top-ranked team, coach Mauricio Pochettino reiterated his belief that the team outperformed South Korea in the recent 2-0 loss. Speaking in Columbus, Ohio, before an upcoming friendly against Japan, Pochettino expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance upon reviewing the match.

“We performed, despite the result, in a very good way,” Pochettino said. “The players did what we wanted.”

The 53-year-old Argentine coach has been subject to rising scrutiny as he approaches the one-year mark of his notable hiring.

Pochettino pointed out that although he has a record of nine wins, six losses, and one draw in 16 matches, the defeats, including two against their main rival Mexico, piled on pressure after an underwhelming showing in the Concacaf Nations League.

“Of course I want to win,” a notably defensive Pochettino said. “I wanted to win against South Korea. I want to win tomorrow against Japan.”

Despite the criticism following Saturday’s loss, Pochettino stressed the need for unity and a positive approach, urging everyone to support the national team as they prepare for the World Cup.

“We need to be positive. We need to be all together, because the country deserves that we are all on one side trying to help arrive at the World Cup in the best condition and be competitive,” he said.