{"id":11838,"date":"2025-07-07T19:14:03","date_gmt":"2025-07-07T23:14:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2025\/07\/07\/critiquing-the-lackluster-show-from-the-usmnt-whos-to-blame\/"},"modified":"2025-07-07T19:14:03","modified_gmt":"2025-07-07T23:14:03","slug":"critiquing-the-lackluster-show-from-the-usmnt-whos-to-blame","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2025\/07\/07\/critiquing-the-lackluster-show-from-the-usmnt-whos-to-blame\/","title":{"rendered":"Critiquing the Lackluster Show from the USMNT: Who\u2019s to Blame?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_74 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2025\/07\/07\/critiquing-the-lackluster-show-from-the-usmnt-whos-to-blame\/#Editors_Pick\" >Editor&#8217;s Pick<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2025\/07\/07\/critiquing-the-lackluster-show-from-the-usmnt-whos-to-blame\/#Stream_Futbol_Americas_on_ESPN\" >Stream Futbol Americas on ESPN+<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"article-meta\">\n<ul class=\"authors\">\n<li class=\"mugshot-shown\">\n<div class=\"author-img\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/a.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=\/photo\/2024\/0610\/r1344124_600x600_1-1.jpg&amp;h=80&amp;w=80&amp;scale=crop\" alt=\"\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"><\/div>\n<p>Jeff Carlyle<span class=\"timestamp \">July 7th, 2025, 9am<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"author-overlay\">close<\/p>\n<ul>Jeff Carlisle covers ESPN FC&#8217;s MLS and the US national team.<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>HOUSTON &#8211; The final whistle of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup echoed through NRG Stadium, marking a tough 2-1 defeat for the US men&#8217;s national team against their historic rivals, Mexico. While the Mexican supporters celebrated their win, the US team faced the disappointment of finishing as runners-up, their heads down and shoulders slumped as they received their medals.<\/p>\n<p>This disappointment, however, overshadows the progress made over the past 40 days. From their first practices in Chicago, this youthful American squad demonstrated significant growth, rebounding from a 4-0 drubbing by Switzerland to reach the Gold Cup final\u2014an achievement they initially deemed beyond their reach. The journey allowed them to navigate knockout rounds against hostile crowds, showing resilience especially during the group stages.<\/p>\n<p>Noteworthy individual performances emerged, particularly from center back Richards, who cemented his starting position, while midfielders Diego Luna and Malik Tillman demonstrated considerable potential. New players like goalkeeper Matt Freeze, defender Alex Freeman, and midfielder Sebastian Barhalter also made their mark.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"inline editorial float-r\" data-behavior=\"article_related\">\n<h2 class=\"editorial-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Editors_Pick\"><\/span>Editor&#8217;s Pick<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>2 Related<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<p>While not all these athletes will secure spots in next year&#8217;s FIFA World Cup, their experiences will be vital for future opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Midfielder Tyler Adams emphasized the significance of competing in the final, stating, \u201cThis was a learning experience for everyone on this team.\u201d He noted that for several, it marked their first encounter with Mexico, stating that the team showed resilience in front of a passionate crowd.<\/p>\n<p>Nonetheless, the match presented stark lessons, particularly in finishing chances and defensive coordination. Luna notably missed a clear opportunity in the first half, and US defenders struggled to maintain tight marking on set pieces, evident in the goal that secured Mexico&#8217;s victory. Tillman&#8217;s performance was inconsistent, adding to the team\u2019s challenges.<\/p>\n<p>Experience from facing Mexico in Concacaf competitions also played a role. Moments like the uncalled handball by Jorge Sanchez in the 66th minute and Luna&#8217;s questionable foul before Alvarez&#8217;s goal drew criticism, with US manager Mauricio Pochettino labeling the missed call as &#8220;embarrassing.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>According to Richards, Alvarez&#8217;s initially offside goal should have been disallowed, commenting, \u201cWe always feel a step behind the referee.\u201d He added, \u201cConcacaf is tough on us, and we need to adapt.\u201d<\/p>\n<div data-behavior=\"video_scroll\" class=\"contentItem__content contentItem__content--media-card contentItem__content--fullWidth contentItem__content--inline\">\n<figure data-video=\"watch,640,360,45686699\" data-cerebro-id=\"686b45132882dd3629dcde87\" data-title=\"Pochettino talks 'embarrassing' no-call on apparent Mexico handball\" class=\"media-wrapper_image video\" data-source=\"espn\"><picture class=\"media-wrapper_image\"><source data-srcset=\"https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fmedia%2Fmotion%2F2025%2F0706%2Fdm_250706_soc_poch_on_handball%2Fdm_250706_soc_poch_on_handball.jpg&amp;w=640&amp;h=360&amp;cquality=80&amp;format=jpg\" media=\"(min-width: 376px)\"><source data-srcset=\"https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fmedia%2Fmotion%2F2025%2F0706%2Fdm_250706_soc_poch_on_handball%2Fdm_250706_soc_poch_on_handball.jpg&amp;w=335&amp;cquality=80, https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fmedia%2Fmotion%2F2025%2F0706%2Fdm_250706_soc_poch_on_handball%2Fdm_250706_soc_poch_on_handball.jpg&amp;w=670&amp;cquality=40&amp;format=jpg 2x\" media=\"(max-width: 375px)\"><img class=\" lazyload lazyload\"><\/source><\/source><\/picture><span class=\"video-play-button\" data-id=\"45686699\">play<\/span><figcaption class=\"media-caption\">\n<p>1:34<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"contentItem__contentWrapper\">\n<p>Pochettino addresses the &#8220;embarrassing&#8221; missed call regarding a handball by Mexico.<\/p>\n<p class=\"contentItem__subhead\">USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino discusses the missed penalty after Mexico&#8217;s handball.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Despite this, Mexico earned their victory, with a squad featuring more of their top players. The US struggled with set-piece defense and displayed ongoing issues with ball possession, a recurring weakness that some veterans also exhibited. It served as a stark reminder that lessons in football are not restricted to youth.<\/p>\n<p>A pivotal question remains whether these promising young players will continue to develop and absorb the lessons from this experience; they will need opportunities, with the next international window in September presenting a crucial chance. Veteran defender Tim Ream feels optimistic about this group moving forward.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAfter our initial knockout match, I told some that they are no longer inexperienced,\u201d Ream said. \u201cThey are now going through a pivotal period and must learn from it. They\u2019ve adapted quickly and have significantly contributed over the last five weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Pochettino and his coaching staff also took away valuable insights from the Gold Cup, marking their first international tournament together. He now has a clearer understanding of which players can contribute effectively.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"inline float-r inline-track\">\n<h2 class=\"img-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stream_Futbol_Americas_on_ESPN\"><\/span>Stream Futbol Americas on ESPN+<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" data-lazyload=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/a.espncdn.com\/photo\/2021\/0305\/r822897_2_576x324_16-9.png\" class=\"round lazyload\"><\/p>\n<p>Herculez Gomez and Cristina Alexander discuss the most significant narratives and summarize key highlights in American soccer. Streaming on ESPN+ (US only)<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<p>September will see the return of stars like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Timothy Weah. However, Pochettino is cautious about automatically reintegrating them, preferring to evaluate the entire roster in terms of fitness and attitude. There are no guarantees.<\/p>\n<p>A critical factor in Pochettino&#8217;s success has been the strong bond formed with the players over the past 40 days\u2014what began with rigorous training evolved into a strong sense of unity that he deeply values. Pochettino&#8217;s appreciation for this group has grown with each match, a sentiment shared by Adams, who believes it\u2019s genuine.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"inline inline-photo full\">\n<figure><picture><source data-srcset=\"https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fphoto%2F2025%2F0707%2Fr1515853_2_1296x729_16%2D9.jpg&amp;w=570&amp;format=jpg, https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fphoto%2F2025%2F0707%2Fr1515853_2_1296x729_16%2D9.jpg&amp;w=1140&amp;cquality=40&amp;format=jpg 2x\" media=\"(min-width: 376px)\"><source data-srcset=\"https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fphoto%2F2025%2F0707%2Fr1515853_2_1296x729_16%2D9.jpg&amp;w=375, https:\/\/a1.espncdn.com\/combiner\/i?img=%2Fphoto%2F2025%2F0707%2Fr1515853_2_1296x729_16%2D9.jpg&amp;w=750&amp;cquality=40&amp;format=jpg 2x\" media=\"(max-width: 375px)\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" class=\" lazyload lazyload\" data-image-container=\".inline-photo\" height=\"320\" width=\"570\"><\/source><\/source><\/picture><figcaption class=\"photoCaption\">Mauricio Pochettino&#8217;s USMNT faced a 2-1 loss against Mexico in the Gold Cup final. <cite>Lobby Jay Barratt\/Getty Images<\/cite><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cAttitude needs to be addressed immediately,\u201d Adams stated. \u201cMauricio likely won\u2019t hesitate to exclude anyone based on the culture we\u2019ve built. Regardless of one\u2019s status or injury history, he prioritizes the collective culture and emotions, which can lead to positive results.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Some players from this tournament will likely return in September, including Richards, Ream, and midfielders Lucadella Torre, Luna, and Tillman. A key question remains: How will the attitudes fostered during the Gold Cup transfer to the next squad in September?<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe\u2019ve established our standard,\u201d Ream commented. \u201cWe understand what\u2019s expected of us. It may have taken some time, but as players come and go, this current group may evolve.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Emerging leaders are stepping up, and in September they are expected to carry forward Pochettino\u2019s vision. \u201cIt empowers them to ensure continuity in our approach,\u201d Ream noted. \u201cThey need to maintain the lessons learned both on and off the pitch. This unity is crucial, and it has been key to what we\u2019ve accomplished.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>This ongoing journey is vital as these players aim to solidify their growth and reach new heights in next year\u2019s World Cup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>Fan Take:<\/strong> This Gold Cup final outcome is significant for soccer fans, as it highlights the US men&#8217;s national team&#8217;s growth and resilience. Their journey could indicate a brighter future for American soccer, building anticipation ahead of the upcoming World Cup.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Jeff CarlyleJuly 7th, 2025, 9am close Jeff Carlisle covers ESPN FC&#8217;s MLS and the US national team. HOUSTON &#8211; The final whistle of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup echoed through NRG Stadium, marking a tough 2-1 defeat for the US men&#8217;s national team against their historic rivals, Mexico. While the Mexican supporters celebrated their win, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":11839,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[3600,3659,40,2366,46,2164,45,1200,1267],"class_list":{"0":"post-11838","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-football","8":"tag-blame","9":"tag-critiquing","10":"tag-football","11":"tag-lackluster","12":"tag-news","13":"tag-show","14":"tag-soccer","15":"tag-usmnt","16":"tag-whos"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11838","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11838"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11838\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11839"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11838"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11838"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11838"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}