Mexico’s expectations for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup were very high, as the arrival of Javier Aguirre as coach excited fans with a change in the sporting project. The Mexican national team managed to stand out by qualifying for the round of 16 of the competition. However, the surprise was the emergence of Costa Rica, who also secured their place in the second round of the tournament. Both national teams will face each other in agame that could decide the leader of Group A.
Costa Rica entered the competition as underdogs, yet they have turned heads. Head coach Miguel Herrera has built a solid team that could challenge Mexico for leadership in Group A at the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, if they win. Manfred Ugalde leads the national team’s offense, which stands out due to its speed and defensive strength. Consequently, they pose a significant threat to opponents.
In contrast, Mexico carried immense pressure into the tournament but has thrived in Group A. They display a reshaped defense with Cesar Montes at the helm. Additionally, their attack gains power from veteran Raul Jimenez who has returned to top form and acts as the team’s offensive pillar. These factors boost Mexico’s prospects significantly to keep the leadership of the group.
Mexico confirmed lineup vs Costa Rica
Mexican national team coach Javier Aguirre approaches the crucial match against Costa Rica with a fully fit squad. Nevertheless, the lack of effectiveness of the Raul Jimenez-Santiago Gimenez duo prompts Aguirre to make strategic changes. For that reason, Mexico will enhance the attack by introducing a forward trio featuring Roberto Alvarado, Alexis Vega, and Jimenez.
Raul Jimenez #9 of Mexico celebrates after scoring a goal during the second half of the Gold Cup match against Dominican Republic at SoFi Stadium on June 14, 2025.
Given this context, Mexico will line up as follows against Costa Rica: Angel Malagon; Jorge Sanchez, Johan Vazquez, Mateo Chavez, Cesar Montes; Edson Alvarez, Luis Chavez, Marcel Ruiz; Alexis Vega, Raul Jimenez, Roberto Alvarado.
see also
Mexico’s schedule at the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup: Games, key players and what’s ahead
Costa Rica confirmed lineup vs Mexico
As Costa Rica prepare to face Mexico, the team aims to overcome the absence of Warren Madrigal, who sustained a significant injury during his debut in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup. Head Coach Miguel Herrera remains confident in his squad’s ability to deliver top-notch performance. With the remaining players in peak condition, Herrera will field a lineup similar to the one that secured victories in their previous two matches.
With this in mind, Miguel Herrera’s team will play as follows against Mexico: Keylor Navas; Jeyland Mitchell, Juan Pablo Vargas, Francisco Calvo; Carlos Mora, Brandon Aguilera, Orlando Galo, Josimar Alcocer, Joseph Mora; Alonso Martinez, Manfred Ugalde.
