Matt Freese reveals disappointment after Gold Cup final loss

According to ESPN, United States men’s national team and New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese expressed his disappointment following his team’s 2-1 loss to Mexico in the Gold Cup final.

“I was devastated. It was a massive opportunity for the group and a chance to make a statement,” Freese revealed. “Perhaps we made some statements along the way, but the ultimate goal was to win the final and the trophy — we fell short of that.”

The United States took an early lead through Chris Richards’ goal in the fourth minute, but Mexico turned the game around with goals from Raúl Jiménez and Edson Álvarez.

Freese — who had only one national team appearance before this tournament — started all six Gold Cup matches as goalkeeper. Coach Mauricio Pochettino later provided feedback to the 26-year-old keeper.

“They said it was a big step for me, but that is now the minimum standard and I need to continue to build upon that foundation that I set this summer,” Freese added.