EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — Not for the first time, U.S. men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino arrived at a post-match press conference after a loss, this time a 2-1 defeat to Turkiye in the first of two friendlies that will precede the Gold Cup. There was one thing he was relieved about, though.

USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino said it's important to focus on the opportunity for his young squad, rather than the absences of several senior players.

Turkey won more duels, aerial duels, and had a higher success rate of tackles against the Americans, who seemed to lose the mentality game and intensity as the match progressed -- despite the fact that the home side had plenty more possession that led to substandard half chances.

Turkey took advantage of a sloppy defense to beat the United States 2-1 in a rainy friendly on Saturday, dealing the Americans their third straight loss.

Jack McGlynn scored 59 seconds in for the U.S., which was missing many regulars as coach Mauricio Pochettino revamped his roster following a dismal performance at the CONCACAF Nations League final four in March.