Howard Echoes Pochettino's Complaints: Referees Favor Mexico Against the USMNT
Mauricio Pochettino had similar feelings with USMNT players and fans after the controversial handball in the game against Mexico was not called a penalty. USMNT fans believe a penalty should've been given, while others explain why the handball wasn't given.
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Pochettino's comments suggesting referees favor Mexico over the USMNT have sparked controversy in the CONCACAF region, with some believing the manager has handled the loss poorly.
Mauricio Pochettino: "The truth was that if that happened in the opposite half in their box, for sure is a penalty."
Former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard agreed with Pochettino's comments towards Mexico being favored over the USMNT over the years. The goalkeeper mentions that he has felt the same feelings before.
In the Unfiltered Soccer podcast with Landon Donovan and Tim Howard, Donovan read Pochettino's quote on the handball and was surprised to hear Howard's feelings towards previous matches against Mexico.
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Tim Howard on Gold Cup Final Handball
Donovan was surprised to hear that Howard felt that Mexico was 'favored' over the USMNT now and in the past. At first glance, Howard did not believe the handball warranted a penalty, but he changed his mind quickly.
Tim Howard: "The handball initially, I didn't think so. I believe in the rule of if you're bracing your fall with your hand and it hits your hand, whatever. But these still photos. Now you look back and are like 'How is this possible?'"
Donovan mentions Pochettino's complaint about the handball as he describes the Mexican player holding the top of the ball as he is falling, making the play controversial. He also believes the handball would've been awarded a penalty under different circumstances.
Landon Donovan: "If that happened in the group stage, I bet it's a handball. Because it's a final, the ref doesn't want to impact the game."
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Chris Richards on the handball decision
After the game, Chris Richards had strong words on the handball during the USA vs Mexico match. The defender was one of the top players of the USMNT during the Gold Cup, and he showed frustration over the referee not calling a penalty for Team USA.
Richards couldn't believe the USMNT were not awarded a penalty. He goes on to agree with Howard and Pochettino's complaints, and names CONCACAF as Richards talks about the controversial play.
Chris Richards: "Homie palmed the ball like Shaq in the box. That's CONCACAF for you - they hate us. But we have to just keep moving with it."
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Related: Diego Luna Sidelines Top USMNT Star - Donovan's Bold World Cup Call
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
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