The highly anticipated match between Mexico and Costa Rica in Group A of the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2025 took place on June 22nd at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada. Both teams entered the match with unblemished records, having already secured their places in the quarterfinals. The stakes were high: the winner of the match would clinch the top spot in Group A and, crucially, avoid a quarterfinal clash with the United States.

Mexico, led by coach Javier Aguirre, came into the game with a slight advantage in goal difference. A draw would be sufficient to secure the top spot. Costa Rica, managed by Miguel Herrera, a former coach of the Mexican national team, needed a victory to leapfrog El Tri and claim first place.

Mexico had demonstrated their prowess in set-piece situations throughout the tournament, with four of their five goals originating from corner kicks. César Montes had been a particular threat, scoring twice against Suriname from corner kick opportunities. In their opening match, Mexico edged out the Dominican Republic 3-2, with goals from Edson Álvarez, Raúl Jiménez, and Montes.

Costa Rica, on the other hand, had shown resilience in their previous matches, securing comeback victories against both Suriname and the Dominican Republic. Manfred Ugalde and Josimar Alcócer had been instrumental in Costa Rica's attack, with the duo accounting for five of the team's six goals. Ugalde had converted two penalties, while Alcócer had provided crucial goals in both matches.

The match was televised on FS1 in English and on TUDN, Univision, and ViX in Spanish.

Ultimately, Mexico secured the top spot in Group A. By finishing first, Mexico will likely avoid the United States in the quarterfinals, instead facing a potentially easier opponent such as Saudi Arabia. Costa Rica, finishing second, now faces the daunting task of taking on the United States in the next round.