Alexi Lalas
Soccer Analyst
The rivalry between the U.S. and Mexico stands out as the most exciting in international soccer. Losing to your archrival is never a pleasant experience.
This past Sunday, the U.S. team fell short against a more seasoned Mexican squad in the Gold Cup final, despite missing several key players. There are no silver linings here; regardless of the age or experience level, a loss is still a loss.
That said, the Gold Cup journey is significant for U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino, especially as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup.
Chris Richards and Malik Tillman made the most of their Gold Cup appearances. (Photo: John Dorton/ISI Photos/ussf/getty images)
Players such as Diego Luna, Malik Tillman, and Chris Richards leveraged this opportunity to define their futures. Pochettino is likely to emerge as a key figure in molding this team’s identity moving forward.
For returning players like Christian Pulisic, it’s crucial to adapt to the new dynamics this team has developed. They must meet the expectations set by their absence.
Mexico beat USMNT: Instant analysis following the final matchup of the Gold Cup | Fox Soccer
I am not fond of losing, and the U.S. team was outplayed by a better Mexican side. They struggled to control significant portions of the match, and a lack of key performances highlighted their shortcomings. Patrick Agyemang, who started as striker and scored twice in the tournament, failed to rise to the occasion when it mattered.
Similarly, though Luna has garnered a lot of praise, he needed to deliver in the final when expectations were high, but he was largely absent.
If he’s to be the player we expect him to be, he must learn from this experience. Stars shine in crucial moments, and if he wants that spotlight, he must take responsibility.
For Diego Luna, it was a quiet Gold Cup final after impressive previous performances. (Photo: Robbie Jay Barratt – Ama/Getty Images)
Who stood out? Who didn’t?
Tillman consistently performed throughout the tournament, reinforcing his value to the team, yet there is still room for growth. Sebastian Berhalter, alongside Luna, also stands out as a beneficiary of this tournament, given their limited previous exposure to the national team. It would be surprising if either were omitted from the upcoming camp in September.
Patrick Agyemang needs to step up to remain in the USMNT mix. (Photo: Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/ussf/getty Images)
At the striker position, Raul Jimenez has consistently proven to be an asset for Mexico, providing crucial skills and movements that create opportunities for others. He consistently positions himself to score, unlike Agyemang, who was notably absent during critical moments.
The U.S. lacks a reliable striker who can effectively force opposing teams to strategize around his presence, highlighting a major concern.”;
This team was enjoyable to watch
I’ve mentioned before that sports often transcend perspective, becoming a whirlwind of emotions. It was thrilling to witness this team evolve together, despite being labeled as misfits initially.
When the team shows passion, the fans reciprocate that enthusiasm. Despite the loss in the final, it’s evident that these players genuinely cared from the opening whistle to the tournament’s conclusion.
While it ended in disappointment, Mauricio Pochettino and the U.S. team had a memorable run in the Gold Cup final. (Photo: Robbie Jay Barratt – Ama/Getty Images)
As we approach the World Cup, there are heightened expectations following the Gold Cup experience, especially for players who will have the privilege to represent the U.S. on home soil. That’s a remarkable opportunity that will leave a lasting impact.
It’s been heartening to see these athletes embrace their roles and inspire hope among fans this summer.
Alexi Lalas is a soccer analyst at Fox Sports and the host of “Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast.” He played for the U.S. Men’s National Team during the 1994 FIFA World Cup and later became president of LA Galaxy, where he helped bring David Beckham to Major League Soccer.
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**Fan Take:** The U.S.-Mexico rivalry is not just about winning or losing; it’s about building a stronger soccer culture in the U.S. and preparing for future successes, especially with the World Cup on the horizon. Fans should feel optimistic, as this young team’s journey could signal a bright future for soccer in America.
