The Gold Cup final has arrived, setting the stage for a classic encounter between the United United States and Mexico. Despite a turbulent tournament journey, both teams have reached the final with significantly altered rosters. Led by key players like Edson Alvarez and Raul Jimenez, El Tri has navigated the competition successfully and faces their regional rivals aiming for a potential third consecutive Concacaf title.
For the USMNT, despite the absence of their full senior squad, coach Mauricio Pochettino has witnessed promising development from talents such as Diego Luna, Matt Freese, and Malik Tillman. This tournament performance could influence major roster decisions for the 2026 World Cup, which the US will co-host. The team must elevate their game further to overcome Mexico in this decisive match. A victory here could solidify certain players` positions for 2026.
Here are the key details, how to watch the match, and more:
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 final marks Mauricio Pochettino`s second time managing the USMNT against El Tri, and improvement is needed from their previous encounter. In October 2024, the USMNT was outmatched, losing 2-0 in Mexico during Andres Guardado`s send-off game. While that match was played in Mexico against a first-choice squad, and Christian Pulisic did not start for the USMNT, facing Mexico in the United States still presents a challenge with the current, non-regular roster. Injuries, Club World Cup participation, and player rest mean numerous expected World Cup squad members are absent. This situation creates challenges for Pochettino but also significant opportunities for the players currently involved.
USMNT vs Mexico History
These historic rivals first met in 1934 and have since played 78 times. Mexico holds the edge with 37 wins to the USMNT`s 24, with 17 draws. This upcoming final will be the 11th time they`ve met in a cup final, a series that has seen periods of dominance shift between the two nations. Mexico has won six of these finals, while the USMNT has won four. This match offers the USMNT a chance to prevent Mexico from securing a third consecutive Concacaf championship and aims to recapture the success they enjoyed from 2021-2024, a period during which the USMNT claimed three straight Cup final victories 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 visible passion, like his celebration after scoring the USMNT`s second goal against Guatemala, speaks volumes about his impact this camp. With three goals and two assists across five matches in the tournament so far, Luna is making a compelling case for inclusion in Pochettino`s World Cup squad. He is giving his all for the national team badge, and if the USMNT is to upset Mexico, Luna will likely be central to their success.
Storyline to Watch
Team Progress Under Pochettino: Mauricio Pochettino`s transition from club to international management involves a significant change in player training time. Camps are brief, requiring tactics that players can quickly grasp. However, this Gold Cup represents the longest competitive camp Pochettino has overseen, providing both him and the players extended time to adapt. While there`s been notable growth in the midfield and attack during the tournament, the defensive performance against a strong Mexico side will be critical. This is where Pochettino`s tactical influence is most vital in guiding the USMNT through this challenge. They might not match Mexico player-for-player on paper, but a committed performance could lead to an upset.
Prediction
Diego Luna, having reportedly considered representing both the USMNT and Mexico, will likely find the net against El Tri, but it may not be enough for the USMNT to secure a win. This Mexico team is well-drilled and in good form. Even if they fall behind, they are expected to fight back and claim victory, securing their third consecutive Concacaf title.
Pick: USMNT 1, Mexico 2
