The 2025 Gold Cup quarterfinals are set to feature a historic first-ever meeting in the tournament between Concacaf powerhouse Mexico and Asian contenders Saudi Arabia. This intriguing intercontinental clash marks Saudi Arabia`s debut in the knockout rounds as a guest nation, adding an exciting new dimension to the regional championship.
For Mexico, the stakes and pressure are significant. El Tri enters this knockout match as strong favorites, widely expected not just to secure a win but to deliver a dominant performance as they pursue their ninth Gold Cup title. However, their path in the tournament so far has included narrow victories and a goalless draw against Costa Rica in the final group stage game, somewhat challenging the narrative of outright dominance.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia arrives in the quarterfinals with nothing to lose and significant potential gain. They are looking to build upon their showing at the 2022 World Cup and prove that their invitation to the Gold Cup is well-deserved. With a coveted semifinal berth on the line and national pride at stake, this unprecedented encounter between two distinct footballing cultures promises drama, intensity, and possibly moments that will be long remembered in Gold Cup history.
How to watch and odds
- Date: Saturday, June 28
- Time: 10:15 p.m. ET
- Location: State Farm Stadium — Glendale, Arizona
- TV: FS1
- Live stream: Fubo
- Odds: Mexico -230; Draw +315; Saudi Arabia +655
Last meeting
Mexico has never been defeated by Saudi Arabia in their six previous encounters. Their most recent match took place during the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, which Mexico won 2-1 with goals scored by Henry Martín and Luis Chávez. Notably, neither of these players is part of the current Gold Cup roster. Ultimately, both teams were eliminated from the World Cup group stage, with Mexico needing one more goal to surpass Poland on goal difference.
Predicted lineups
Mexico: Luis Malagon; Jorge Sánchez, César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo; Roberto Alvarado, Edson Alvarez, Marcel Ruiz, Alexis Vega; Santiago Gimenez, Raul Jimenez
Saudi Arabia: Nawaf Alaqidi; Ali Majrashi, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Abdullah Madu, Boushal; Abdulrahmid, Ali, Al-Aboud; Al-Ahehri, Al-Buraikan, Al-Sahafi
Player to watch
Raul Jimenez, Mexico: While Cesar Montes has been a primary source of goals for Mexico, particularly from set pieces (scoring three of their five group stage goals), Montes is unavailable due to yellow card accumulation. As a result, focus shifts to Jimenez to lead the attack.
Feras Al-Brikan, Saudi Arabia: With 55 caps, he is the most experienced player on the Saudi roster and provides vital leadership, especially as the team is missing several key players due to the Club World Cup. He ranks second in goals scored for the team (11) and has taken the most shots (five) in the tournament.
Storyline to watch
Favorites vs. Underdog Guests: Saudi Arabia finished second in Group D, four points behind the U.S., following a win over Haiti and a draw against Trinidad & Tobago. Making their first appearance in the Gold Cup, Saudi Arabia continues the trend of successful guest teams from the Asian confederation, with four out of five Asian participants reaching the knockout stage.
Mexico has an opportunity to achieve consecutive Gold Cup titles for the first time since their triumphs in 2009 and 2011. After securing only one of five Concacaf trophies between 2021 and 2024, Mexico is currently the reigning champion of both major Concacaf competitions, having won the Nations League in March and the 2023 Gold Cup.
Prediction
This quarterfinal matchup is expected to present fascinating tactical contrasts. Mexico`s characteristic possession-based attacking play will likely face off against Saudi Arabia`s disciplined defensive setup and potentially dangerous counterattacks. The outcome of the match could hinge on whether Mexico`s midfielders and forwards can effectively break down a well-organized Saudi defense, or if the speed of the Saudi wingers can exploit any weaknesses in Mexico`s backline.
Our Pick: Mexico 1, Saudi Arabia 0
