Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the United States Men’s National Team, has voiced his fury after a crucial handball appeal was ignored in the Concacaf Gold Cup 2025 Final, where his side fell 2-1 to Mexico.
The controversial moment occurred in the second half when Jorge Sánchez appeared to block a cross with his arm inside the penalty box. Despite USMNT players calling for a penalty, VAR did not intervene, and the referee allowed play to continue.
“If it happened in the other box, it’s a penalty – no doubt,” Pochettino fumed in the post-match press conference.
“It’s embarrassing for a tournament final to have a call like this missed.”
🎥 No VAR Review Shocks US Fans
The incident has since sparked debate across social media and international punditry, with many questioning why VAR failed to trigger a review. Even ESPN and FOX Sports highlighted the lack of transparency around the decision.
- Pochettino told FOX Sports: “We work hard, we prepare for moments like these, and a clear handball like that being ignored… it’s unacceptable.”
- ESPN’s post-match analysis confirmed that there was no official communication regarding a VAR check, leaving players and fans alike in disbelief.
⚽ Final Score Recap:
- USA 1–2 Mexico
- 🇺🇸 Chris Richards – 4’
- 🇲🇽 Raúl Jiménez – 27’
- 🇲🇽 Edson Álvarez – 77’
Despite scoring early, the USMNT couldn’t maintain momentum. Mexico capitalized with two well-timed goals to claim their 10th Gold Cup title. But the narrative was quickly overshadowed by the non-penalty decision.
🧐 Was It a Handball?
Footage and stills from the broadcast show Jorge Sánchez extending his arm, seemingly making contact with the ball. According to IFAB Laws of the Game, such an action would typically warrant a penalty if the arm makes the body “unnaturally bigger.”
“This wasn’t a deflection or a natural position. The arm’s away from the body – it’s a clear handball,” said one former referee on World Soccer Talk.
🗣️ Fallout & What’s Next
The incident has fueled ongoing concerns about VAR inconsistency in Concacaf tournaments. Pochettino called for greater accountability and modernization:
“VAR is supposed to bring fairness. If it’s not used properly, it defeats its own purpose.”
Concacaf has yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
📈 Why This Matters:
- The decision potentially changed the outcome of a major final.
- Sets the tone for future calls in World Cup 2026 qualifiers, where both teams will feature.
- Pochettino’s credibility as a top-level coach brings global attention to the issue.
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