The Concacaf Gold Cup is set to kick off this weekend, serving as the final major international tournament for the United States, Mexico, and Canada before they co-host the men’s FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Historically, these North American teams are the only squads to have lifted the Gold Cup trophy.
However, with a mix of other contenders entering the tournament—some coming off World Cup qualification matches—this year promises potential surprises.
In light of this competitive backdrop, we present a snapshot of every team participating in the championship, highlighting what fans should know ahead of the matches.
**Group A**
**Mexico (FIFA ranking: 17)**
As defending champions of the Gold Cup, Mexico enters this tournament aiming to showcase its dominance within Concacaf.
The team recently celebrated its first Concacaf Nations League title, lifting spirits following the disappointment of failing to progress out of the group stage in 2022.
With key players such as veteran forward Raúl Jiménez and creative midfielder Alexis Vega, Mexico seeks to solidify its status as the top team in the region.
Emerging talents like AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez and 16-year-old Gilberto Mora, who recently made the roster, add excitement and depth to the squad.
**Costa Rica (FIFA ranking: 54)**
Costa Rica’s campaign is led by manager Miguel Herrera and veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who has made a return to international play.
Despite ongoing discussions surrounding a generational shift in the team’s composition—evident through 16 players being born in the 2000s—the squad retains experienced figures like Navas.
**Suriname (FIFA ranking: 137)**
Led by Stanley Menzo, a legendary Ajax goalkeeper, Suriname’s team showcases a unique blend of players, many of whom have ties to the Netherlands.
Menzo, who himself faced racial abuse during his playing career, brings an interesting perspective to his management role.
**Dominican Republic (FIFA ranking: 139)**
Making its debut in the Gold Cup, the Dominican Republic represents a continuation of the nation’s upward trajectory in international soccer.
The return of former Real Madrid forward Mariano Díaz to the national team adds firepower, following a successful scoring spell in recent friendlies.
**Group B**
**Canada (FIFA ranking: 30)**
Canada’s last Gold Cup victory was in 2000, and the team hopes to recapture that magic despite missing key players like Alphonso Davies due to injuries and commitments to the Club World Cup.
Manager Jesse Marsch faces the challenge of guiding a squad capable of competing, relying on strong performances from forwards Jonathan David and Promise David.
**Honduras (FIFA ranking: 75)**
Honduras enters this tournament facing challenges, particularly with the absence of defender Andy Najar.
The squad will need to adapt quickly after a disappointing result in a recent qualifier that only featured an own goal on their score sheet.
**El Salvador (FIFA ranking: 81)**
El Salvador is relying on the experience of manager Hernan ‘El Bolillo’ Gomez to steer the team to success in the Gold Cup.
Known for his prior stints with Panama and other nations, Gomez aims to guide La Selecta beyond the group stages for the first time.
**Curacao (FIFA ranking: 90)**
Experience is key for Curacao, which features a squad led by center back Cuco Martina.
With a significant number of players boasting extensive international caps, Curacao aims to leverage its seasoned talent in the tournament.
**Group C**
**Panama (FIFA ranking: 33)**
Panama has earned a reputation for being a giant slayer after notable victories over the United States in recent competitions.
Manager Thomas Christiansen’s squad aims not only to reach finals consistently but also to translate that into a trophy.
**Jamaica (FIFA ranking: 63)**
Jamaica is under the stewardship of manager Steve McClaren, who is actively engaging with English connections to bolster their squad.
One player to watch is former Manchester United player Ravel Morrison, who looks to establish himself as a crucial member of the team.
**Guatemala (FIFA ranking: 106)**
Guatemala combines local talent with U.S.-based players, enriching the team’s diversity.
Manager Luis Fernando Tena’s inclusion of players like Damian Rivera, who has transitioned from a youth career in the U.S., highlights the country’s effort to strengthen its roster.
**Guadeloupe (FIFA ranking: N/A)**
As a non-FIFA member, Guadeloupe aims to make the most of the Gold Cup opportunity.
Their qualification after two narrow victories over Nicaragua has set the stage for an inspiring performance, led by 39-year-old defender Méddy Lina, a seasoned presence in the squad.
**Group D**
**United States (FIFA ranking: 16)**
As the U.S. fielded questions surrounding their Gold Cup potential, significant absences due to the Club World Cup and injuries put pressure on the squad.
With several stars opting out, players such as Paxten Aaronson and center backs Chris Richards and Mark McKenzie now have opportunities to shine during this tournament.
**Haiti (FIFA ranking: 83)**
Haiti showcases a diverse squad with players competing in leagues across various nations.
Under manager Sebastien Migne, the team is looking to leverage its rich player base to achieve strong performances in the tournament.
**Trinidad and Tobago (FIFA ranking: 100)**
Manager Dwight Yorke brings a wealth of experience to Trinidad and Tobago, having previously played for the national team during its finest Gold Cup moments.
Finding success has been elusive for this squad in recent competitions, as they hope to break out of the group stage this time around.
**Saudi Arabia (FIFA ranking: 58)**
As the tournament unfolds, the excitement builds around these teams and potential tales of surprise.
Fans can look forward to a thrilling Gold Cup season, as the competition for the coveted title will be fierce and unpredictable.
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