The Concacaf Gold Cup final has arrived, presenting a classic matchup between the United States men`s national team and Mexico. Both sides have successfully navigated a varied tournament landscape to reach this stage, albeit with significantly different rosters. Mexico, led by seasoned players like Edson Alvarez and Raul Jimenez, has advanced steadily and faces their regional rivals with a chance to claim their third consecutive Concacaf championship.
For the USMNT, the tournament has been characterized by the absence of some of the biggest names in their player pool. Despite this, coach Mauricio Pochettino has overseen the development of promising players such as Diego Luna, Matt Freese, and Malik Tillman. This progress could potentially lead to key roster decisions for the USMNT ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil. To overcome Mexico at this juncture, the current squad members must elevate their performance. A victory could potentially solidify spots for some players on Pochettino`s squad for 2026.
Here`s a look at the key storylines, how you can watch the match, and betting odds:
How to watch USMNT vs. Mexico, odds
- Date: Sunday, July 6
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: NRG Stadium — Houston, Texas
- TV: FOX
- Live stream: Fubo (Try for free)
- Odds: USMNT +190; Draw +210; Mexico +145
Last meeting
This match will be Mauricio Pochettino`s second opportunity to manage the USMNT against El Tri, and an improved performance will be needed. In their first encounter in October 2024, the USMNT was outplayed, losing 2-0 in a match held in Mexico, which also served as a farewell game for midfielder Andres Guardado. While that previous match was played in Mexico against a full-strength opponent, and Christian Pulisic didn`t start for the USMNT, Pochettino again faces the challenge of not having his regular roster available in the United States due to a combination of injuries, Club World Cup commitments, and player rest. While this presents difficulties for Pochettino, it also creates significant opportunities for the players who are participating in this tournament.
USMNT vs Mexico history
The rivalry between these two teams began in 1934. They have faced each other a total of 78 times, with Mexico holding the historical advantage with 37 wins compared to the USMNT`s 24 victories and 17 draws. This upcoming match will be their 11th meeting in a cup final. Dominance in these finals has shifted between the nations; Mexico has won six of these finals, while the USMNT has won four. This final offers the USMNT a chance to prevent Mexico from winning a third consecutive Concacaf championship and to re-establish the success they enjoyed from 2021-2024, a period during which the USMNT secured three consecutive cup final wins over El Tri.
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
Diego Luna, USMNT: Diego Luna`s memorable “aura farming” celebration after scoring the USMNT`s second goal against Guatemala perfectly illustrates his successful performance during this camp. With an impressive three goals and two assists across five matches in the tournament so far, Luna is clearly making a strong case to earn Mauricio Pochettino`s trust and potentially secure a place in the World Cup squad. His commitment to the badge is undeniable; if the USMNT is to pull off a victory against Mexico, Luna is expected to be a key figure in making that happen.
Storyline to watch
How far has this team come under Pochettino? Mauricio Pochettino`s transition from managing clubs to international teams brings a significant change in the amount of time he gets with his players for training. International camps are typically short, requiring tactics that players can quickly grasp. However, this tournament marks Pochettino`s longest competitive camp, providing both him with extended time to assess the players` capabilities and for the players to become more familiar with his style. While there has been observable growth in the midfield and attack throughout the camp, defensive improvements will be crucial when facing a strong Mexico squad. Success in this match will serve as a key indicator of how effectively Pochettino`s tactics can guide the USMNT through significant challenges. They may not match Mexico player-for-player in every position, but a full effort for the national team could still make an upset possible.
Prediction
Despite his previous considerations about representing either the USMNT or Mexico, Diego Luna is likely to find the back of the net against El Tri. However, it may not be sufficient for the USMNT to secure a win. This Mexico team is both well-drilled and in good form. Even if they concede an early goal, they are expected to rally and clinch the victory, thereby claiming their third consecutive Concacaf title. Pick: USMNT 1, Mexico 2
Benedict Kingsley