WHAT HAPPENED
During the USMNT`s victory over Guatemala in the 2025 Gold Cup semifinal on Wednesday, former national team player Maurice Edu commented on the stadium atmosphere, noting the large presence of Guatemala fans. He acknowledged that coach Mauricio Pochettino`s team is currently working to rebuild its connection with the American fanbase.
“It`s certainly frustrating,” Edu stated on the State of the Union podcast. “This team is also in the process of rebuilding its rapport with the fanbase, giving them a reason to come out and support because the team`s performance on the pitch should match the passion, love, and connection that fans feel.”
“We are moving in that direction. I believe this journey through the tournament has been beneficial for everyone involved, especially for the players under Pochettino to experience tournament play – the highs and lows, and making in-game adjustments throughout the competition. More importantly, these players and this team are demonstrating certain qualities, particularly in the recent matches, which will hopefully encourage the fanbase to reconnect and believe in the team again.”
WHAT ALEXI LALAS SAID
The USMNT is set to face favored Mexico in the Gold Cup final on Sunday. Former national team star Alexi Lalas confirmed his belief that Pochettino`s squad are “underdogs,” but anticipates an exciting contest.
“It`s going to be enjoyable,” Lalas remarked. “Heading into this final, the United States is the underdog. The Mexico team is definitely the favorite. As I`ve mentioned before, we`ve heard since the beginning of this tournament that Mauricio Pochettino brought a B and C team, that key players aren`t here, are injured, or declined to join the tournament. This group is supposedly just a collection of inexperienced young MLS players.”
“Therefore, if Mexico were to somehow lose to this particular U.S. team on Sunday in Houston, it would be incredibly disappointing for them and a disgrace for them and the country of Mexico to do so.”
However, Lalas stressed the significance of the rivalry.
“Ultimately, this is something we`ve witnessed many times before, United States versus Mexico, arriving via different paths, but it`s fundamentally a classic encounter,” Lalas said. “This is the greatest rivalry in international soccer. I would compare it favorably against any other rivalry out there, given our geographic proximity, our shared history, culture, politics, entertainment, language, and all the other connections we have with our neighbors to the South. So, bring it on. I`m ready for it.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The USMNT`s progression to the Gold Cup final has provided valuable international tournament experience for the new head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, and the team. The final itself will further contribute to this experience, which is crucial with the World Cup less than a year away.
WHAT’S NEXT?
The USMNT will compete against Mexico in the Gold Cup final on Sunday, held in Houston, Texas.
