The pulsating game was a fitting finale to a tournament boasting plenty of goals and attacking games in front of bumper attendances and Mexico, with their exciting young team, were deserved champions for a record sixth time.
Mexico had to fight back from 2-0 down after 23 minutes but with Giovani dos Santos at his sparkling best, Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez a constant threat and Pablo Barrera causing havoc on the right wing, they ran out convincing winners.
"They're as dynamic as any [Mexico] team I've played against," U.S. forward Landon Donovan told reporters.
"They have a few guys who can change the game in a heartbeat. They have some special players and they're explosive and if you give them space they're going to make plays," he added.
A huge Mexican contingent in the crowd at the Rose Bowl brought a festive atmosphere to the aging venue for the 1994 World Cup final but the pre-game 'Futbol Fiesta' came to a halt soon after kick-off.
The switch didn't initially disrupt the attacking flow of Bradley's team who kept surging forward to exploit opponents who appeared rattled by the early assault.
The approach paid off handsomely in the 24th minute when Clint Dempsey fed Landon Donovan, the United States' all-time top scorer celebrating his return to the starting line-up with the coolest of left-foot finishes.
The U.S. left the field looking shell-shocked at the break while Mexico's confident body language told the story of a determined comeback.
The hosts needed to get a quick grip on the game in midfield if they were to stem Mexico's attacking flow but their southern neighbors were in no mood to ease off.
The sealer sparked chants of 'Ole, Ole' from the stands and marked the start of
