Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the US men's national team, turned a mid-half water break into an impromptu video analysis session during Sunday's 3-2 friendly win over Senegal. The scene, captured as Pochettino crouched by the bench pointing at a laptop held by an assistant, quickly became a viral meme on social media.
Defender Mark McKenzie described the moment as "a new one for sure," likening it to an NBA timeout. Pochettino explained that the laptop displayed clips of plays where the US could improve, a practice he claims to have pioneered in 2009 as manager of Espanyol. "The players need to feel, but they also need to see," he said.
The water breaks, mandated by FIFA for player safety in high temperatures, have drawn criticism from purists who see them as disrupting football's flow. Pochettino himself dislikes them, stating, "If it's not too hot, I think it's not necessary." However, he acknowledged using the break to help his team, calling it a "tactical stop" similar to those seen in basketball.
At the World Cup, cooling breaks will occur mid-half regardless of weather, but players will not be allowed off the field. Pochettino noted the team is awaiting clarity on what activities will be permitted during those breaks. Despite the controversy, McKenzie said the pause was "beneficial," allowing the US to "fine-tune some things" and "reset as a collective."
