As the USMNT will play Mexico in the 2025 Gold Cup final, one name is noticeably missing from the squad sheet: Christian Pulisic. Pulisic’s absence has fueled plenty of discussion online, especially given the rise of young stars like Diego Luna - who's wearing the number 10 in Pulisic's absence.

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.