The USMNT's 2-1 defeat to Mexico in the Gold Cup Final will best be remembered by one controversial decision from officials, in which they determined that no penalty was to be awarded after Mexican defender Jorge Sanchez hit the ball with his hand while falling to the ground.

Heading into Sunday's Concacaf Gold Cup final, the vibe around the U.S. men's national team was as optimistic as it had been in at least a year, if not longer. From head coach Mauricio Pochettino and his roster made up mostly of fresh faces,