Pochettino Alaba to Tillman: “What a Player!” after US Victory in Gold Cup

The United States technical director, Mauricio Pochettino, expressed his satisfaction after his team’s 2-1 victory over Haiti in the Concacaf Gold Cup, calling the performance “professional”. Malik Tillman and Patrick Agyemang’s goals, scored at different times in the match, secured the USMNT’s third consecutive victory in the tournament, guaranteeing first place in Group D. Now, the United States will face Costa Rica or Mexico in the quarterfinals. Tillman shone once more, not only for his third goal in the tournament, but also for his outstanding defensive contribution, leading the team with seven recoveries. Pochettino praised the player’s versatility and talent.

Malik is a difficult player to define, what a player! He is showing all his talent and ability. With each match he demonstrates his talent, his work ethic, aggressiveness and ability to recover balls. He can play in different positions, such as a number 10, on the wing or even further back as a number 8 or 6. I am very happy with him.

Mauricio Pochettino

The United States took the lead in the 10th minute thanks to a header from Tillman after a cross from Brenden Aaronson. However, Haiti tied the score in the 19th minute after a mistake by American goalkeeper Matthew Freese, who gave the ball to Louicius Deedson, who scored. In the second half, the USMNT dominated the game, with Tillman close to scoring on several occasions. Finally, with 15 minutes to go, John Tolkin assisted Agyemang, who beat Haitian goalkeeper Johny Placide and scored the winning goal.

Pochettino highlighted the team’s overall performance, although he pointed out the need to be more effective in goal opportunities. He also praised the team’s response after Haiti’s goal, and emphasized the difficulty posed by the opposing team.

I think overall it was a good performance. Maybe we weren’t as effective with the chances we had. We should score more. But I think when we score and lead the match, and then an accident, I think we conceded the goal. I think that created a bit of doubt in us. Again, I think it was difficult to deal with that, but I think overall the performance was good.

Mauricio Pochettino

The coach also expressed his confidence in Freese, despite the error that led to Haiti’s goal, and praised Agyemang, highlighting his important work for the team.

Patrick is doing a fantastic job for the team. Everything he gave the team today and in previous matches as well, he is a fantastic forward. He still has room for improvement, but we are very happy with him.

Mauricio Pochettino