USA without new coach Mauricio Pochettino draw with New Zealand in friendly

The United States men's national soccer team entered the field in Cincinnati for a friendly match against New Zealand on Tuesday night with a sense of victory, yet their performance did not reflect that sentiment.

Rumors that had circulated for a month were confirmed just 35 minutes prior to the match, as it was announced that Mauricio Pochettino would take over as head coach, succeeding Gregg Berhalter, who was dismissed in July following the team's inability to progress beyond the group stage of Copa America.

Christian Pulisic netted a goal in the 69th minute for the Americans, but a last-minute equalizer from New Zealand's Ben Waine in the 89th minute marred what was expected to be a night of celebration.

The equalizing goal resulted from a clearance by U.S. defender Caleb Wiley, which inadvertently struck teammate Mark McKenzie, ricocheted off Waine, and found its way past goalkeeper Matt Turner.

Although Pochettino, the former Chelsea manager, was not present in Cincinnati, he is set to lead the team during their upcoming matches against Panama on October 12 in Austin, Texas, and against Mexico on October 15 in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Pulisic entered the match in the 57th minute, taking the place of forward Haji Wright under interim coach Mikey Varas. He marked his 31st goal in his 73rd appearance for the national team following a well-executed play.

Marlon Fossey, who made his national team debut just a day after turning 26, assisted Ricardo Pepi on the right flank. Pepi then passed to Folarin Balogun, who set up Pulisic for a shot after he skillfully shifted the ball from his right foot to his left.

Shortly thereafter, Balogun forced a crucial diving save from Max Crocombe, which proved to be significant.

The U.S. team was looking to bounce back from their third consecutive defeat, having lost 2-1 to Canada in Kansas City, Kansas, on Saturday. The match was largely dominated by the Canadians, with the scoreline only remaining close due to goalkeeper Patrick Schultze's five saves and the contributions of substitutes Luca de la Torre, who scored his first goal, and Aidan Morris, who provided his first assist for the national team.