KLIK SAJA - The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) continues its pursuit of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup title on Sunday with a high-stakes quarterfinal clash against Costa Rica, the Group B runner-up.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has assembled a squad featuring 15 Major League Soccer (MLS) players—offering both seasoned veterans and emerging talents the platform to shine.
This year’s Gold Cup is more than just a trophy chase for the Americans—it serves as their final tune-up before co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
That makes winning the Gold Cup almost non-negotiable.
As hosts of the next World Cup, the US is expected not only to perform but to dominate in the region—this tournament is a key step toward building the confidence and momentum they need on the global stage.
After entering the tournament winless in four straight matches, the USMNT has roared back to form, stringing together three consecutive victories in their campaign for an eighth Gold Cup crown—just one shy of Mexico’s record nine titles.
Though it hasn’t always been smooth sailing, the U.S. topped Group D with a perfect record.
They opened with a dominant 5-0 win over Trinidad & Tobago before grinding out two 1-0 victories against Saudi Arabia and Haiti.
Charlotte FC striker Patrick Agyemang has netted twice, including the game-winner versus Haiti, placing him second on the team’s scoring list behind Malik Tillman, who has three goals.
At the back, New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese has conceded just once, while Orlando City’s Alex Freeman has started every match at right back.
In midfield, Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake) and Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) have consistently impressed with their composure and creativity.
Costa Rica, meanwhile, finished just behind Mexico in Group A—separated only by goal difference after a goalless draw between the two sides.
Miguel Herrera’s squad opened the tournament with a dramatic 4-3 win over Suriname, secured by a stoppage-time penalty from Manfred Ugalde.
They followed it up with a 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic, again thanks to Ugalde’s third penalty of the tournament and a late winner from Josimar Alcócer.
