United States manager Mauricio Pochettino experienced a moment of visible frustration during the World Cup last 16 match against Belgium in Seattle on Monday night. He was seen smashing a container of water bottles in a fit of rage after the Belgian team scored their second goal.
The incident occurred shortly after Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere netted for his country, a goal that came just 61 seconds after Malik Tillman had equalized for the U.S. The quick succession of goals, with Belgium retaking the lead, visibly upset the usually composed Argentinian coach.
Pochettino was standing in front of his coaching staff in the dugout when the incident took place. Backup goalkeeper Matt Turner was also seen reacting with dismay.
A victory over Belgium would have secured a quarterfinal berth for the U.S. team, a stage they have not reached since 2002. This would have matched their joint-best performance in the tournament, dating back to the inaugural 1930 World Cup where they finished third.
The match was a crucial knockout tie for the United States as they aimed to advance deeper into the World Cup competition. The team had found a way back into the game, only to concede immediately after, leading to Pochettino's animated response.
