It was a perfect night for the USMNT, other than Luna's nose, as they capped the January camp by trouncing Los Ticos 3-0

Now, playing Venezuela and Costa Rica in January friendlies is one thing. Taking on top-tier teams in serious competition is a whole other animal. Let’s not kid ourselves, the Costa Rica squad we saw looked more like a shadow of the team that made noise in past World Cups.

USA beat Costa Rica in a friendly game on Thursday, with Brian White, Caden Clark and Patrick Agyemang on target for Mauricio Pochettino’s team. Goalkeeper Zack Steffen made a significant contribution too.

Mauricio Pochettino is confident his USMNT side ... effects of Pochettino's coaching style after just 10 days, with Zack Steffen defining the coach as "demanding" and "intense."

Mauricio Pochettino said he has been handed a welcome selection headache after watching his youthful United States squad wrap up their January training camp with a 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in Florida on Wednesday.

Lessons from the U.S.'s annual January camp are often individually focused, so which players proved they deserve a bigger role with the national team?

Led by Mauricio Pochettino, the 24 players called up for the friendly matches against Venezuela and Costa Rica began their preparation.

Mauricio Pochettino is pushing players to the limit to get them in shape for matches against Venezuela and Costa Rica. Some players haven't played competitive matches since November due to not qualifying for MLS playoffs,

January camp presented an opportunity for domestic-based players to prove they can play a role in the USMNT depth chart, but it will take time for those who played best to see any real return at the senior level.

With an MLS-heavy roster, new coach Mauricio Pochettino has plenty to be impressed with after a convincing pair of friendlies.

This is The Athletic’s daily sports newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Pulse directly in your inbox. Good morning! Take the money today. Who’s Left? Who’s left on the NFL coaching carousel? After a few dormant days,