INGLEWOOD, Calif. — From clubs throughout MLS and Europe, members of the U.S. men’s national soccer team descended on Southern California this week with two paramount missions: win the Concacaf Nations League for the fourth consecutive year and perform with the harmony and verve necessary for success in the 2026 World Cup.
One goal could be realized without the other, but with only one additional tournament on the calendar before the sport’s spectacle comes to North America, an urgency to check both boxes greeted Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.
Thursday’s semifinal against Panama, however, quickly turned into a slog — a far cry from the rhythmic aspirations the Argentine leader hopes to instill in 15 months.