The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) began their 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign on Sunday, June 15, 2025, against Trinidad and Tobago at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. With several key players missing from the squad, including Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams, the USMNT was looking to refocus and start the tournament strong. The match marked the last true competition for coach Mauricio Pochettino and the team before the 2026 World Cup.

The USMNT, heavily favored with odds around -900, aimed to break a four-match losing streak. In the opening minutes, the USMNT showcased attacking intent, pressing Trinidad and Tobago's defense. The breakthrough came in the 16th minute when Jack McGlynn delivered a precise cross that found Malik Tillman. Tillman, playing for PSV Eindhoven, took his time and placed a perfect shot into the bottom left corner of the net, giving the U.S. a 1-0 lead.

McGlynn's assist highlighted his playmaking ability and vision. Just before halftime, in the 41st minute, Tillman scored again, increasing the USMNT lead to 2-0. This time, Diego Luna provided the assist, capitalizing on a Trinidad and Tobago mistake. Luna's performance was particularly noteworthy, playing in front of around 30 friends and family members in what was a homecoming match for him.

Throughout the first half, the USMNT maintained control, with McGlynn also contributing on set pieces, delivering dangerous corners that kept the Trinidad and Tobago defense under pressure. The starting lineup featured some surprises, including Matt Freese in goal and Sebastian Berhalter in midfield. Patrick Agyemang led the line as the striker.

Trinidad and Tobago, managed by legendary player Dwight Yorke, aimed to advance past the Group Stage for the first time since 2015. However, they faced a tough challenge against a USMNT eager to find their form. The USMNT has a strong historical record against Trinidad and Tobago, with five wins in their previous Gold Cup encounters. The most recent match between the two sides was in the 2023-24 CONCACAF Nations League Quarterfinals, where Trinidad and Tobago won the second leg 2-1, although the U.S. advanced 4-2 on aggregate.

Despite missing key players, the USMNT displayed their depth and potential, with young players like McGlynn and Luna stepping up. The team is looking to secure its eighth Gold Cup title, and a positive start against Trinidad and Tobago is a crucial step in that direction.