Mexico vs Costa Rica: Projected lineups for the top spot in Group A at 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup

Mexico and Costa Rica are set to clash for Matchday 3 in a duel for the top of Group A in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.

Mexico and Costa Rica are set to square off in a thrilling Group A showdown at the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup at Allegiant Stadium. With both sides tied at six points following dominant performances, each will look to secure the group’s top spot and a more favorable draw in the quarterfinals.

The Mexican national team comes into this match fresh off a 2-0 victory over Suriname, with defender Cesar Montes netting both goals. Despite generating plenty of chances, El Tri struggled to capitalize on several opportunities, relying heavily on set pieces — particularly corner kicks — as they did in their opening match of the Gold Cup.

On the other hand, Costa Rica, buoyed by the return of legendary goalkeeper Keylor Navas, arrives after rallying to defeat the Dominican Republic 2-1. In a closely contested match that could have gone either way, Los Ticos ultimately prevailed to extend their winning streak and keep pace atop the group.

A matchup with a familiar face

This clash between Mexico and Costa Rica promises top-level entertainment, with both sides aiming to take control of Group A. It will also serve as an important test for both managers, who are still settling into their new roles with their respective national teams.

Mexico, under the guidance of Javier Aguirre, will face a familiar figure in Miguel Herrera. The Mexican coach, who famously led El Tri at the 2014 World Cup — a campaign that ended in heartbreak after a controversial penalty — is now in charge of Costa Rica in his second stint as a national team boss. The storyline adds even more intrigue to this pivotal group stage matchup.

Projected lineups for Mexico and Costa Rica

Mexico’s projected lineup (4-4-2): Luis Malagon; Israel Reyes, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez, Jesus Gallardo; Roberto Alvarado, Edson Alvarez, Marcel Ruiz, Alexis Vega; Raul Jimenez, Julian Quiñones.
Head coach: Javier Aguirre.

Costa Rica’s projected lineup (5-3-2): Keylor Navas, Carlos Mora, Jeyland Mitchell, Juan Pablo Vargas, Francisco Calvo, Joseph Mora; Brandon Aguilera, Orlando Galo, Josimar Alcocer; Alonso Martinez, Manfred Ugalde.
Head coach: Miguel Herrera.