Mexico defeated the US on Sunday in an exciting Gold Cup last, however the match was filled with drama from begin to end. Group USA struck first early within the sport, just for El Tri to reply with an equalizer earlier than halftime—and ultimately seal a 2–1 win with a late aim.
Probably the most controversial moments got here within the 66th minute, with the rating tied at 1–1. Maximilian Arfsten tried to interrupt into the field, and whereas Jorge Sánchez defended properly, the ball bounced ahead and as Sánchez misplaced steadiness, he positioned his hand on the ball. The U.S. gamers appealed for a penalty, however the referee waved it off.
Simply eleven minutes later, Edson Álvarez scored the successful aim within the 77th minute, clinching the title for Mexico.
Pochettino: “If that occurred in Mexico’s field, it’s a penalty”
Within the post-match press convention, U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino addressed the controversy and advised the choice might need gone in another way had the incident occurred on the different finish of the sphere.
“I’m not going to cry,” he started. “I simply wish to inform the reality—and the reality is, if that very same factor had occurred within the different field, it’s a penalty. No query.”
He elaborated additional:
“We’re not right here to debate the foundations. Is it a tender penalty? Positive. But it surely’s nonetheless a penalty. The participant was on one knee and positioned his hand on the ball—the hand didn’t begin on the bottom and get hit by the ball. That’s a giant distinction.”
Respect for Mexico and a Nod to the Followers
Pochettino took a second to congratulate Mexico and coach Javier Aguirre on their Gold Cup victory.
“Congratulations to Mexico and Aguirre for successful the Gold Cup. They labored onerous like we did. The one who wins all the time deserves the respect of those that don’t.”
He additionally commented on the environment at NRG Stadium, the place greater than 70,000 followers attended—however the majority supported Mexico.
“When you might have the group behind you, it lifts your vitality on the sphere. However when it’s towards you, it drains you. I believe the group felt that in the previous couple of video games. We performed properly and had a robust match, however issues may’ve been completely different if we had extra help.”
“If it had been the opposite approach round—if there had been 50,000 followers backing us—it could have been a unique sport. However it’s what it’s.”
