-myKhel Team
The upcoming World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada next year. This event marks a significant moment for these nations as they prepare to showcase their capabilities on the global stage. The 2025 Club World Cup in the USA serves as a precursor, testing venues and logistics. Meanwhile, the CONCACAF Gold Cup is crucial for these countries to fine-tune their teams.
Mexico has been a dominant force in the Gold Cup since its rebranding from the CONCACAF Championship in 1991. They have won half of the previous 18 tournaments and never failed to reach the last eight. Their recent success in the 2024-25 CONCACAF Nations League further cements their status as North America’s top team.
Raul Jimenez was instrumental in Mexico’s Nations League victory over Panama, scoring twice. He is joined by Santiago Gimenez from AC Milan and Edson Alvarez from West Ham, forming an experienced squad. Despite some disruptions due to club commitments, Mexico remains a strong contender for this year’s Gold Cup.
Mauricio Pochettino took over as head coach of the USA last September, succeeding Gregg Berhalter. His tenure started well with five wins out of six matches but faced setbacks with defeats to Panama and Mexico. The USA now aims to improve their performance on home soil during this tournament.
Pochettino faces challenges with an inexperienced squad due to key players like Christian Pulisic opting out for rest and injuries sidelining others such as Folarin Balogun and Antonee Robinson. Veteran Tim Ream is one of the few experienced players available, while fringe players have opportunities to impress ahead of the World Cup.
Canada’s Ambitions
Canada’s only Gold Cup victory was in 2000, but they are optimistic about their chances this year after finishing fourth at last year’s Copa America. They demonstrated competitiveness against top teams like Argentina and Uruguay during that tournament.
Despite missing Alphonso Davies due to injury, Canada has Jonathan David leading their attack. David has been prolific for Lille in Ligue 1 and will be crucial for Canada’s success in Group B against Honduras, El Salvador, and Curacao.
Other Contenders
Saudi Arabia joins as a guest nation but faces challenges without key player Salem Al-Dawsari due to club commitments. Panama is another team to watch after recent victories over the USA and a close match against Mexico in the Nations League final.
The Opta supercomputer predicts Mexico as favourites with a 30.1% chance of winning. The USA follows closely with a 27.1% chance despite absentees. Canada has a 12.6% chance of success, while Saudi Arabia holds a 9.3% chance of becoming the first non-CONCACAF winners.
The Gold Cup promises excitement with unpredictable outcomes due to player absences and emerging talents seeking opportunities on this prestigious stage.
