“Pressure is a privilege.” The famous phrase comes from one of the greatest tennis players, Billie Jean King, who won 12 Grand Slam titles and broke barriers in sport. For the U.S. men, it’s a similar case as they look for an eighth Gold Cup title against Mexico.

USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino said his team needs the "pressure" Sunday's Gold Cup final against Mexico to prepare for next summer's World Cup.

The U.S. views game vs. Mexico as a high-stakes contest, the last chance to play under pressure ahead of the 2026 World Cup.