CHICAGO, Illinois – Mexico is champion of the Concacaf Gold Cup for the eighth time following its 1-0 win over the United States in Sunday’s Final.
Head Coach Gerardo Martino spoke in his post-match press conference about the joy that comes from winning the Gold Cup.
“Playing an international tournament and winning it is a great relief in a tournament of this nature,” said Martino.
“We value it, because you always make the effort and we’ll celebrate because we are deserved winners after six matches played. Nobody thought this was going to be a parade and I think the biggest thing was having won while staying true to our ideas in a final where a lot is at stake and there is pressure,” added Martino.
Of the greatest satisfaction to Martino was the fact that Mexico was able to win the title by never straying away from the football that it has always sought to play.
“I told the players that there was no doubt that what would get us closer to the title was to impose our style of play. For what we did during the entire second half, we have won playing our way and having courage, and in a final. That and other high points from young players or non-starters are elements to take into account and highlight,” said Martino.
Martino also took a moment to share what it meant to him when the Mexico players celebrated the title with him.
“That type of gesture brings us a lot closer. Managers like us, we are usually a little to the side of the players and there are gestures that are made toward managers that are very worthy. In my case, I value it a lot and it really meant a lot to me. It doesn’t happen every day,” concluded Martino.
