The USMNT’s first chance to win a trophy under coach Mauricio Pochettino slipped away as it played poorly against Mexico in the Gold Cup final.
HOUSTON — The U.S. men’s national team stumbled to a 2-1 loss to Mexico on Sunday in 2025’s Gold Cup final, cementing back-to-back titles for their southern rivals that earned victory thanks to a game-winner from Edson Álvarez.
Held at a sold-out NRG Stadium with a majority Mexico crowd, the championship match initially began with the USMNT hitting the ground running via a fourth minute set-piece goal from Chris Richards off a cross from Sebastian Berhalter.
In response, Mexico increased their attacking pressure, eventually equalizing thanks to a powerful shot from Raúl Jiménez in the 27th minute. Despite the continued attacking momentum from El Tri, the U.S. then nearly took back the lead with an Alex Freeman header that was saved by Mexico goalkeeper Ángel Malagón shortly before halftime.
U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino, eager to turn back the tide after the midway break, then altered his approach to a two-man forward line with the introduction of Damion Downs in the 69th minute. Nonetheless, it was Mexico who stole the game-winner from Alvarez in the 78th minute, securing a 10th Gold Cup trophy.
Following the loss for the USMNT, who used an alternate squad this summer that was missing key players, here are three talking points:
Time and time again in the heart of the pitch against a pressing Mexico side, the U.S. players found themselves either lofting inaccurate passes forward or being a step behind advancing opposing defenders.
