Pochettino praises 17-year-old Dortmund wonderkid after impressive USMNT debut

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·28 September 2026

Pochettino praises 17-year-old Dortmund wonderkid after impressive USMNT debut

At just 17 years old, Borussia Dortmund’s Mathis Albert was brought on around the hour mark during the United States’ 4-1 win over Peru on Saturday.

The youngster made an instant impact, winning the penalty that led to the United States’ second goal and earning praise from head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

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“First action, he steps onto the field and bam, control and off he goes,” Pochettino was quoted as saying by USMNT Only.

“Does he need to improve? Yes. Does he need experience? Yes. Does he need everything? Yes. But he goes, ‘I want to play, I want to show it.’ This is what we need, and that’s why I’m happy.”

Albert has made two appearances for Borussia Dortmund’s senior side so far.