As the USA and Mexico prepare to face off in the 2025 Gold Cup Final at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, the age-old question arises: what would a combined XI look like? Both teams have demonstrated strengths and weaknesses throughout the tournament, leading to some intriguing possibilities when merging the two squads.

Goalkeeper:

• Matt Turner (USA): Turner's experience and shot-stopping ability give him the edge in this hypothetical scenario. He was also man of the match in the 2021 Gold Cup final.

Defenders:

• César Montes (Mexico): Montes has been a rock in the Mexican defense, contributing goals as well.
• Israel Reyes (Mexico): Strong in the tackle and composed on the ball, Reyes brings a physical presence to the backline.
• Antonee Robinson (USA): Robinson’s pace and crossing ability make him a threat on the left flank.
• Julián Araujo (Mexico): Araujo offers a steady presence on the right side, providing defensive stability and an outlet for attacks.

Midfielders:

• Edson Álvarez (Mexico): Álvarez's versatility allows him to play as a defensive midfielder or a center-back. His ability to break up plays and launch attacks makes him indispensable.
• Weston McKennie (USA): McKennie’s box-to-box energy and knack for arriving late in the box make him a key component of the midfield.
• Luis Chávez (Mexico): Chávez's creativity and set-piece delivery add a different dimension to the midfield.

Forwards:

• Diego Luna (USA): Luna's brace against Guatemala in the semi-finals showcased his goal-scoring ability and fearless approach.
• Alexis Vega (Mexico): Vega's playmaking ability and combination play have elevated Mexico's attack.
• Raúl Jiménez (Mexico): Jiménez's experience and goal-scoring instinct make him a valuable asset up front.

This combined XI blends the strengths of both the USA and Mexico, creating a formidable lineup capable of challenging any opponent. The defense is anchored by the Mexican duo of Montes and Reyes, while the midfield boasts a mix of grit and creativity from Álvarez, McKennie, and Chávez. Upfront, Luna and Vega provide dynamism and flair, with Jiménez leading the line with his clinical finishing.

Of course, this is just a hypothetical exercise, and the reality on the field may differ. Both teams have their own unique qualities and team dynamics that cannot be easily replicated in a combined XI. However, it serves as an interesting thought experiment and highlights the talent present in both the USA and Mexico squads as they prepare to battle for Gold Cup glory.

Mexico has won the Gold Cup a record nine times, while the U.S. has won it seven times. Mexico is aiming for their tenth Gold Cup title and seeks to be the first repeat champion since 2009 and 2011. The United States is unbeaten in six straight competitive meetings against Mexico. The upcoming final promises to be a captivating encounter between two of Concacaf's powerhouses.