The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup is set to kick off on June 14, marking the final major international tournament before the United States, Mexico, and Canada host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This year's tournament promises to be filled with surprises, as several contenders are coming off World Cup qualification matches, and some favorites are missing key players due to the simultaneous FIFA Club World Cup.

Group A

Mexico (FIFA ranking: 17) El Tri enters the Gold Cup as the defending champions, fresh off their first Concacaf Nations League title. Despite their recent successes, Mexico still faces stiff competition from North American rivals. The team will look to defend their title and prove their dominance ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Key players include veteran forward Raúl Jiménez and rising star Santiago Gimenez.

Costa Rica (FIFA ranking: 54) Managed by Miguel Herrera, Costa Rica features veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who returned to the national team after his international retirement. The squad has undergone significant generational changes, with 16 players born in the 2000s.

Suriname (FIFA ranking: 137) Led by legendary Ajax goalkeeper Stanley Menzo, Suriname boasts a mix of players born in the Netherlands and Suriname. Menzo's leadership and experience will be crucial for the team's performance.

Dominican Republic (FIFA ranking: 139) Making their Gold Cup debut, the Dominican Republic continues to rise in international football. Former Real Madrid forward Mariano Díaz has recommitted to the national team, adding firepower to their attack.

Group B

Canada (FIFA ranking: 30) Canada, the only team other than Mexico or the U.S. to win the Gold Cup, aims to make a deep run in the tournament. Despite absences due to injury and the Club World Cup, the team remains dangerous with players like Jonathan David and Promise David in good form.

Honduras (FIFA ranking: 75) Honduras will miss the services of Andy Najar, who opted out of the Gold Cup. The team faces defensive challenges and will need to improve their chance-creation to advance.

El Salvador (FIFA ranking: 81) Under new manager Hernan 'El Bolillo' Gomez, El Salvador hopes to make a magical run in the Gold Cup. Gomez, known for his success with Panama, aims to lead the team to their first semifinal.

Curacao (FIFA ranking: 90) Manager Dick Advocaat relies on experienced players like Cuco Martina to guide Curacao through the tournament. The team's experience could be a key factor in their performance.

Group C

Panama (FIFA ranking: 33) Panama has earned a reputation as a giant slayer, having knocked off the U.S. in recent tournaments. The team aims to go all the way and lift the Gold Cup trophy.

Jamaica (FIFA ranking: 63) Managed by Steve McClaren, Jamaica features former Manchester United player Ravel Morrison. The team looks to leverage their English connections for a strong tournament run.

Guatemala (FIFA ranking: 106) Guatemala's squad includes U.S.-based players like Damian Rivera, who adds depth to the team's attack. Manager Luis Fernando Tena aims to lead the team to success.

Guadeloupe (FIFA ranking: N/A) As a non-FIFA member, Guadeloupe's participation in the Gold Cup is a significant achievement. The team will rely on experienced players like Méddy Lina to make an impact.

Group D

United States (FIFA ranking: 16) The USMNT faces challenges with several key players missing due to injury and the Club World Cup. However, the tournament provides opportunities for emerging talents to stake their claim for the 2026 World Cup roster.

Haiti (FIFA ranking: 83) Haiti's diverse squad features players from 15 different nations. Manager Sebastien Migne aims to lead the team to a strong performance in the Gold Cup.

Trinidad and Tobago (FIFA ranking: 100) Under new manager Dwight Yorke, Trinidad and Tobago hopes to replicate their past successes in the Gold Cup. The team aims to advance past the group stage for the first time since 2015.

Saudi Arabia (FIFA ranking: 58) As the guest team, Saudi Arabia's participation adds an international flavor to the Gold Cup. The team aims to make a strong impression ahead of the 2034 World Cup.