U.S. soccer coach Mauricio Pochettino coaxed overlooked players into fighting for their country, setting a higher standard for his World Cup roster.

Mauricio Pochettino was not happy with the referees as his USMNT side lost 2-1 to Mexico in the final of the Gold Cup in Houston, Texas on Sunday. Edson Alvarez headed home the winner with just over 10 minutes to go as the USMNT coughed up an early lead given to them thanks to a superb Chris Richards header.

Pochettino's inexperienced side had well-defined standout players at Houston's NRG Stadium on Sunday, with Malik Tillman and Diego Luna making the most of their opportunities over the course of the last month and Chris Richards rising to the occasion in a strong year for club and country.