team on his back in the Mexico game, and Pulisic, while quiet overall, delivered in a clutch moment with his penalty. ET)Įven better is that players like McKennie, Brooks and Pulisic have started to take on more of a leadership role, stepping up in big moments. Unlock world-class coverage of top leagues, tournaments and teams. did enough collectively to get two victories, including a massive confidence-booster against rivals Mexico.
And while some individuals coped better than others - you can count Reyna among those who really impressed - the U.S. But these past two games were a baptism of sorts for some of the younger elements in the squad like Giovanni Reyna, Josh Sargent and Sergino Dest. Sure, players like John Brooks and Pulisic are well-versed in the kind of gamesmanship and shenanigans that go on in CONCACAF, be it subpar field conditions, crazy weather or provocations of any kind. has brought through in the past 18 months is beginning to translate into results, all while getting a taste of what competitive fixtures in CONCACAF will be like.
Jump to: Lessons learned | Impact on coaches | Gold Cup, World Cup projections | State of the rivalry What did we learn about both teams (the good, the bad and the ugly)?Ĭarlisle: The biggest takeaway from the CNL triumph is that the increase in talent the U.S. ESPN+ viewer's guide: Bundesliga, Serie A, MLS, FA Cup and moreĮSPN's Jeff Carlisle and Eric Gomez look back at the epic match in Denver, while assessing both the state of both teams with CONCACAF Gold Cup and World Cup qualifying looming ahead. Following Sunday's instant classic between the United States and Mexico in the Nations League final, there's still plenty to break down from the USMNT's 3-2 win over El Tri.ĭid the USMNT live up to the potential promised by its young stars like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie? Is Mexico still considered the best team in CONCACAF despite the heartbreaking loss? And while Gregg Berhalter won his first trophy as USMNT manager, Gerardo "Tata" Martino may start to feel the pressure that comes with being in charge of Mexico.