Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the CONCACAF Gold Cup match.
The USA have their eyes on reaching the Gold Cup final in Houston, but first they face a potentially challenging quarter-final encounter against Costa Rica. It promises to be anything but straightforward.
USA
Two of the squad’s three group stage wins came by narrow margins, highlighting their vulnerability in the closing stages. They managed just a single goal against Saudi Arabia (1:0), with only five shots on target. In the match against Haiti (2:1), they recorded 18 attempts but converted just twice. Earlier in the year, during the CONCACAF Nations League, the squad suffered defeats to both Panama (0:1) and Canada (1:2).
Costa Rica
Costa Rica earned a goalless draw (0:0) against tournament favourites Mexico, largely thanks to an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who produced four vital saves. While the defence is not impenetrable, the squad can count on forward Josimar Alcocer, who has netted half of their six goals in 2025. Over the course of nine matches this year, Costa Rica have only tasted defeat in friendly fixtures.
USA vs Costa Rica Prediction
Costa Rica are also in pursuit of Gold Cup success, and they have the tools to put the hosts under pressure. We expect the squad to cover a +1.5 handicap, even if it demands maximum effort.
