The Concacaf Gold Cup final is finally here, featuring a highly anticipated clash between the United States men`s national team and Mexico. Both teams navigated a challenging tournament to reach this stage, albeit with significantly different squads. Mexico, anchored by seasoned players like Edson Alvarez and Raul Jimenez, has overcome all opponents and now faces their long-standing regional rival, aiming for a third consecutive Concacaf championship.
Conversely, the USMNT`s tournament journey has been characterized by the absence of several key players from their primary roster. Coach Mauricio Pochettino has observed notable development in younger talents such as Diego Luna, Matt Freese, and Malik Tillman. This emergence could influence squad selections for the 2026 World Cup hosted in the United States. To defeat Mexico in the final, this current group must elevate their performance further. Success here could potentially secure spots for some players on Pochettino`s 2026 squad.
Here is essential information regarding the match:
How to watch USMNT vs. Mexico, odds
- Date: Sunday, July 6 | Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
- Venue: NRG Stadium — Houston, Texas
- Broadcast: FOX | Streaming: Fubo
- Match Odds: USMNT +190; Draw +210; Mexico +145
Last meeting
This final marks Mauricio Pochettino`s second encounter coaching the USMNT against El Tri, and an improved performance is necessary. In their initial meeting in October 2024, the USMNT was clearly outplayed, suffering a 2-0 defeat in a match held in Mexico celebrating Andres Guardado`s career. While that game was played in Mexico against a full-strength Mexican side, and Christian Pulisic did not start for the USMNT, Pochettino still faces the challenge of a depleted roster for this match, even though it`s in the United States. Due to injuries, Club World Cup commitments, and player rest, many expected World Cup squad members are absent. This situation presents difficulties for Pochettino but simultaneously offers valuable opportunities for the players participating.
USMNT vs Mexico history
The rivalry between these two nations dates back to 1934, with a total of 78 previous matches played. Mexico holds the historical edge with 37 wins compared to the USMNT`s 24, alongside 17 draws. This Gold Cup final is their 11th meeting in a championship match, a fixture that has seen periods of dominance swing between the sides. Mexico has claimed victory in six of these finals, while the USMNT has won four. For the USMNT, this presents an opportunity to prevent Mexico from securing a third consecutive Concacaf title and to recapture the success they enjoyed between 2021 and 2024, a period where they defeated El Tri in three straight cup finals.
Predicted lineups
USMNT: Matt Freese, Max Arfsten, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Alex Freeman, Tyler Adams, Luca De La Torre, Diego Luna, Malik Tillman, Jack McGlynn, Patrick Agyemang
Mexico: Luis Malagon, Mateo Chavez, Johan Vazquez, Cesar Montes, Julian Arujo, Marcel Ruiz, Edson Alvarez, Gilberto Mora, Alexis Vega, Raul Jimenez, Roberto Alvarado
Player to watch
Player to Watch: Diego Luna, USMNT. Diego Luna`s performance, highlighted by his celebration after scoring the second goal against Guatemala, exemplifies his impact this tournament. With three goals and two assists across five matches, Luna has strongly positioned himself to gain Pochettino`s confidence and potentially secure a spot in the World Cup squad. His dedication and performance have been crucial; if the USMNT is to overcome Mexico, Luna is expected to be a pivotal figure.
Storyline to watch
Key Storyline: The Team`s Progress Under Pochettino. A significant adjustment for coach Pochettino moving from club to international management is the limited time available for training camps. He must devise tactics that players can quickly grasp. However, this Gold Cup represents the longest competitive camp under his leadership, providing extended opportunity for him to assess the players and for them to adapt to his system.
While the team has shown development in midfield and attack throughout the tournament, defensive solidity against a strong Mexico side remains a crucial test. This match will truly evaluate Pochettino`s tactical effectiveness in guiding the USMNT through this challenge. Although they might be outmatched man-for-man, a committed effort could still lead to an unexpected victory.
Prediction
Prediction: Despite his internal conflict regarding national team allegiance, Diego Luna is expected to score for the USMNT. However, his goal likely won`t be sufficient for a US victory. Mexico is a disciplined team currently in good form, and even if they concede first, they are predicted to recover, secure the win, and claim their third straight Concacaf title. Final Score Prediction: USMNT 1, Mexico 2
