The path to the Concacaf Gold Cup final is set after Thursday`s group draw. The United States will compete in Group D against Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Haiti. The tournament starts on June 14 and concludes with the final on July 6 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. This Gold Cup might be more significant than previous years for the USA. After a disappointing Concacaf Nations League Finals, new coach Mauricio Pochettino may want to use this tournament to prepare the team.
With the Gold Cup just a year before the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, it`s a crucial opportunity for these nations to play competitive matches before the World Cup. As hosts, the U.S. automatically qualifies for the World Cup, making the Gold Cup even more important for gaining competitive experience.
Canada will also host Gold Cup games, with Vancouver as a first-time host city, alongside venues in the United States. The tournament will span various regions of the United States, running at the same time as the FIFA Club World Cup for part of the summer.
The United States` disappointing performance at the Nations League, which Mexico won, could motivate them to send top players like Christian Pulisic to the Gold Cup. This tournament would give Pochettino extended time with the senior team, allowing him to work on the USMNT`s identity and build momentum for the World Cup. Saudi Arabia is an invited guest, providing strong competition for the USMNT. Here’s a look at the groups:
Concacaf Gold Cup Groups
- Group A: Mexico, Costa Rica, Suriname, Dominican Republic
- Group B: Canada, Honduras, El Salvador, Curacao
- Group C: Panama, Jamaica, Guatemala, Guadeloupe
- Group D: United States, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago, Saudi Arabia
The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage to compete for the Gold Cup title. Mexico is the current champion, while the United States last won in 2021. The draw brings back memories of Trinidad & Tobago eliminating the U.S. from the 2018 World Cup qualifiers. The USA will also face Saudi Arabia, who famously upset Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. This tournament is a good chance for Pochettino to move forward and prepare the team.
While there isn`t a clear “group of death,” Mexico`s group with aSuriname team that is getting better could present challenges if Mexico isn`t careful. The United States, Mexico, and Canada are expected to win their groups, but with improving Concacaf teams and dual-national players, there will be tough matches. All three will aim to win the Gold Cup in Houston.
Key Dates
- Group Stage: June 14 – 24
- Quarter finals: June 28 – 29
- Semi finals: July 2
- Final: July 6
