The USMNT was all but written off by the fans and media as they entered the Gold Cup on a four-game losing streak. Complaints about star players sitting out and too many MLS players led the list of reasons why fans were turning on Mauricio Pochettino.

Christian Pulisic isn't with the U.S. after deciding to sit out of the Gold Cup following two grueling seasons in Europe with AC Milan. The 26-year-old attacker told CBS Sports that he offered to play the two friendlies versus Turkiye and Switzerland before the tournament started, but coach Mauricio Pochettino turned him down.