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.

HOUSTON — U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino slammed the officiating in the Americans’ 2-1 loss to Mexico in Sunday’s Gold Cup final, saying his side should have been awarded a penalty kick in the second half.