With Pulisic under pressure, will the USMNT find redemption against New Zealand?

The USMNT captain and icon is not a happy man. Nor would anyone be on hand to witness the uninspired, disorganized American team that was defeated unexpectedly 2-1 by Canada, thus snapping a 67-year unbeaten streak at home. Pulisic spoke his mind: "We started slow again, and yes, we were punished for it." It was crystal clear from the words of the captain that change needs to occur.

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But this match is not just another match with the friendly against New Zealand coming up in three days in Cincinnati. This game represents to Pulisic a chance at regaining confidence, proof that his team is ready to be competitive at a high level. And, as he said, "you're going to see a hungry team, not happy with the last result." The message? No room for complacency. Every minute in the field will be a battle.

Pulisic's Frustration and What's on the Line

During the post-match news conference following the game against Canada, Pulisic didn't hide behind some vague answers. Pulisic realizes that adjustments must be made within the team and that leadership is under question. "It's hard to say what went wrong. it's something we need to fix, but I don't really have a clear answer right now," he admitted after reflecting frustration shared by the fans.

Against New Zealand: More Than Just a Friendly

For Pulisic, though, this friendly match against New Zealand was an opportunity to make amends with the team and somehow try to bring the spotlight onto them, taking into account their potentials. He isn't shying away from how seriously they are taking this match. "It's an opponent that won't give us anything. It's going to be a tough battle," the forward said in emphasis. We know Pulisic speaks with conviction, and when he says that the team needs to be at their best, he's not just motivating, but stating a necessity.

In those 27 matches as captain, Pulisic has recorded a tremendous return of 17 wins, 6 losses, and 4 draws. Against New Zealand, these numbers are expected to get even better, especially after the criticism faced in the last game. Ahead of the New Zealand game, Pulisic urged his side to "take New Zealand very seriously" and warned that the opponent will not be easy, while the team has to give its best. The message is crystal clear-there's simply no room for complacency.

The Road to Recovery

On paper, New Zealand might be the less daunting opposition, but it's exactly these kinds of matches that can give you the knock. The "Kiwis" stand as reigning champions of the Oceania Football Confederation, and while the USMNT holds an unbeaten record against them with 2 wins and 1 draw, nothing is certain. Recent international matches have shown that smaller teams really can create problems-and Pulisic is well aware of that.

He's the figure that fans, the media, and even his teammates look to when things get tough. "You're going to see a hungry team," he promised, but that hunger needs to start with him. If the USMNT is to regain its confidence and move forward, Pulisic will have to be the decisive, smart player who is ready for leadership duty.