United States have to keep believing they can win, Pochettino says

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino stressed the importance of continued belief and effort after his team clinched a spot in the World Cup's round of 32 with a 2-0 victory over Australia. Pochettino stated that the team must "keep believing that we can win (and) knowing that we need to go really hard" in every upcoming match.

The U.S. team dominated the match against Australia, controlling possession in a physically contested game that saw seven yellow cards issued. A key offensive player for the Americans was 23-year-old Ricardo Pepi, who earned a starting position in the absence of the injured Christian Pulisic. Pochettino lauded Pepi, calling him "one of the greatest strikers" and noting his continuous improvement.

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believing that we can win (and) knowing that we need to go really hard

The opening goal for the U.S. came from an own goal by Australia's Cameron Burgess as he attempted to block a cross. U.S. defender Alex Freeman extended the lead with a header late in the first half, securing the 2-0 scoreline. Despite substitutions in the second half, Australia was unable to breach the U.S. defense, which achieved its first clean sheet in nine games.

This win marked the second time the U.S. has secured two victories in the World Cup group stage, the first being in 1930. The team now looks ahead to the remaining Group D matches, with Paraguay and Turkey playing later on Friday.

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He's for me one of the greatest strikers. He's getting better every day.