Mauricio Pochettino offers USMNT something crucial in debut win: hope

The Argentinian's first game in charge, imperfect as it was, represented an immediate boost after a summer of setbacks

Pacing his technical area with puffed cheeks, pursed lips and crossed arms, there was one of the most recognizable faces in club football, the unfamiliar sight of a USA badge on his lapel.

At the final whistle, his brow unfurrowed by the delight of a 2-0 win over Panama in his first game in charge of the US men's national team, Mauricio Pochettino bounded on to the field with a wide grin, glad-handing everyone in sight, with back-slaps, hugs and handshakes for all, from players to officials to a cameraman.