World Cup: Pochettino has instilled belief within his soccer team, and across the country

Mauricio Pochettino’s World Cup run is framed as the catalyst for renewed belief within the U.S. team and, more broadly, across the country. The 54-year-old Argentine coach, associated with U.S. Soccer amid claims of a $6 million role, is described as having united a divided nation for 90 minutes at a time, leading to historic moments at the tournament. The article says the U.S., which topped its group for the first time since 2010, will play a Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara. It also points to the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on July 19 as the place Pochettino believes Team USA belongs. Early evidence is said to include victories over Paraguay and Australia. It cites remarks attributed to Wayne Rooney, and recounts a December World Cup draw in Washington where Pochettino spoke with President Trump.