USMNT's Pochettino sidesteps political talk before Nations League - ESPN

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — U.S. men's national team manager Mauricio Pochettino sought to play down the political overtones of Thursday's Concacaf Nations League semifinal against Panama, stating, «I think it's a big mistake if we talk about politics because I think people [aren't] waiting for us to talk in this way.»

U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments regarding Panama Canal sovereignty introduced a layer of tension to the highly anticipated rematch between the USMNT and Panama, following the Canaleros' 2-1 victory in last summer's Copa América.

But Pochettino said his team's preparation and focus remain solely on the competition, not the political backdrop

«We need to play for us. We need to feel proud to defend our flag and our badge,» Pochettino said during Tuesday's news conference.

«We need to play for our country, but always on the pitch trying to be better, to beat the opponent. And I think it's big mistake if we talk about politics because I think people is not waiting for us to talk in this way. That is why I think, always. [It] was my way. That doesn't mean that I am not strong and I have my values and my vision about the situation, but I think being respectful and being a very clear and a strong guy is… to say nothing and to be focused only to help the player who performs and try to win.»

Pochettino added, «We want to destroy Panama, we want to destroy the next one, and we want to win but destroy,» Pochettino said. But he quickly clarified, «When I say we destroy, it's in a [sporting] way.»

Thomas Christiansen, Panama's coach, was even more circumspect in his thoughts about the game's political overtones.

«The political situation, it's not my business,» Christiansen said. «If you want to talk about