U.S. men's national team coach Mauricio Pochettino displayed visible frustration during the Round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium on Monday night, kicking a set of water bottles near the sideline after Belgium scored its second goal.
The incident occurred shortly after Belgium regained the lead. While the U.S. had briefly equalized in the 31st minute with a goal from Malik Tillman following a free kick, Charles De Ketelaere quickly responded for Belgium just two minutes later, heading the ball past U.S. goalie Matt Freese.
Belgium took an early lead in the ninth minute of the match. De Ketelaere scored the opening goal after receiving a pass across the goal. This marked a departure from the team's previous World Cup matches, where they had scored the opening goal.
The U.S. faced significant pressure in the first half, with Belgium dominating possession. The team is competing in the Round of 16, a stage they have not advanced beyond since the 2002 World Cup. They are also seeking revenge for their Round of 16 loss to Belgium in the 2014 World Cup.
The match was part of the FIFA World Cup tournament, with all games airing on FOX or FOX Sports 1.