Poketino happy and proud: That passion, that feeling, we've been waiting for this

United States national football team coach Mauricio Pochettino said he was proud of his team's performance in today's match and victory against Paraguay at the start of the World Cup.

"I'm very proud. The players and the coaching staff deserve great praise for the game. The most important thing is the game and the feeling. We know that this is just the beginning and that it's nothing. It's just one game. Now we have to be smart to continue in that direction," Pochettino told the BBC after the game.

The US national football team defeated Paraguay 4-1 in Inglewood today in their opening Group D match at the World Cup. The home team was much better, had several good chances and achieved a convincing victory at the start of the competition, which it hosts along with Canada and Mexico.

"We are so happy because the first game in a tournament is always difficult, we are the hosts of the World Cup, but we coped with the expectations and pressure. It was an incredible first 45 minutes, it is difficult to find a team that plays like that. I am so happy and proud," said the coach.

He replaced Christian Pulisic at half-time, who had been one of the best players up until then.

"He got hit in the calf and felt a muscle strain at the end of the first half. We didn't want to risk anything. It was difficult for him to walk, but I hope it's not a big problem and he will be ready for the next game," Pochettino said.

He said that the support from the fans was great.

"That's what we've been waiting for. When you talk about America, that passion, that feeling. Now they understand that football in America is huge, important," Pochettino added.

In the second round, the USA will play against Australia on June 19th, and Paraguay will play against Turkey the day after.