While the U.S. had 60% possession and outshot Turkey 13-11, the Americans dropped to 5-4 under Pochettino, who took over after first-round elimination at last year’s Copa America led the U.S. Soccer Federation to fire coach Gregg Berhalter.

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.

Mauricio Pochettino’s squad grabbed the lead in the opening minute but couldn’t capitalize as it suffered a 2-1 defeat.

Turkey took advantage of a sloppy defense to beat the United States 2-1 in a rainy friendly, dealing the Americans their third straight loss as Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoğlu scored in a 2-minute, 20-second span midway through the first half.

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.