Gold Cup USA vs. Mexico Combined XI: Crafting the Ultimate Lineup Ahead of the Gold Cup Final
The stars of the United States and Mexico have delivered remarkable performances in the Concacaf Gold Cup, leading to a highly anticipated showdown between these two historic rivals in Sunday’s final in Houston (coverage starts at 6 p.m. 22phdream PT on FOX and the FOX Sports app). Before the U.S. and Mexico clash for the eighth time in the tournament’s history, with the trophy at stake, FOX Sports has compiled a combined lineup showcasing the best players from both teams. phdream.com online casino Here are the selections:
Luis Malagon, Mexico
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Club América
Age: 28
While Matt Freese made headlines with his penalty shootout heroics against Costa Rica, Malagón has proven to be a more consistent goalkeeper. After conceding two goals in the Gold Cup opener against the Dominican Republic, he has regained composure and hasn’t let in a goal since. His experience in high-stakes finals—whether in Liga MX or leading El Tri at the Nations League final in March—gives him the upper hand.
Julian Araujo, Mexico
Position: Right back
Club: Bournemouth
Age: 23
The former USMNT player has fully embraced his role in the Mexican squad, particularly during this tournament. Mexico’s coach, Javier Aguirre, has opted for Araujo over veteran Jorge Sanchez, but he will face a significant challenge trying to neutralize the USMNT attack led by talents like Diego Luna and Malik Tillman.
Chris Richards, United States
Position: Center back
Club: Crystal Palace
Age: 25
Richards has played all but four minutes in this Gold Cup and is solidifying his position for next year’s World Cup. He scored the game-winner against Saudi Arabia and played a crucial defensive role in that match. His tough demeanor and willingness to support his teammates during intense moments distinguish him from others.
Cesar Montes, Mexico
Position: Center back
Club: Lokomotiv Moscow
Age: 28
If the World Cup were to begin today, Montes would definitely start for Mexico alongside his formidable teammate Johan Vasquez. Interestingly, despite playing for a team with numerous attacking stars, Montes leads El Tri with three goals in this Gold Cup. The USMNT must keep a close watch on him during corner kicks, as he poses a significant threat with his heading ability.
Max Arfsten, United States
Position: Left back
Club: Columbus Crew
Age: 24
With Antonee “Jedi” Robinson’s absence in this Gold Cup raising concerns among U.S. fans, Arfsten has stepped up to ease that worry. He made a triumphant comeback after conceding an early penalty against Costa Rica, ultimately earning Man of the Match honors for his goal and assist in the thrilling quarterfinal victory. He currently leads the tournament with three assists. download ph888
Edson Alvarez, Mexico
Position: Defensive midfielder
Club: West Ham United
Age: 27
The choice between him and Tyler Adams is a tough one, as both are versatile midfielders keen on defending. However, Alvarez takes the nod for being slightly more effective on the offensive end in this tournament. Observing these two exceptional talents orchestrating the final and keeping their teammates composed under pressure will be crucial.
Diego Luna, United States
Position: Attacking midfielder
Club: Real Salt Lake
Age: 21
This tournament’s breakout star for the U taya365 app download (latest version).S., the “Moon Man,” boasts three goals and two assists in five matches. Only Panama’s Ismael Diaz, the tournament’s top scorer, has eclipsed Luna’s contributions, with five goal involvements. jilino1 log in
Gilberto Mora, Mexico
Position: Attacking midfielder
Club: Club Tijuana
Age: 16
In an era of young talents like Lamine Yamal, Mexico also has its teenage sensation in Mora. The 16-year-old attacking midfielder became the youngest player ever to debut for El Tri in the quarterfinal against Saudi Arabia and assisted Raul Jimenez’s winning goal in the semifinal against Honduras.
Malik Tillman, United States
Position: Attacking midfielder
Club: PSV Eindhoven
Age: 23
Tillman, one of the United States’ co-leaders in goals, has been their most consistent performer throughout the tournament. He scored three goals during the group stage and provided assists in both the semifinals and quarterfinals, tying with Luna for a team-high five goal contributions.
Raúl Jiménez, Mexico
Position: Striker
Club: Fulham
Age: 34
The reliable Jiménez has come through for Mexico in the Gold Cup, recently netting the winning goal against Honduras in the semifinal. He has two goals and 11 shots recorded in five appearances in this tournament.
Alexis Vega, Mexico
Position: Forward
Club: Toluca
Age: 27
Leading Mexico with 11 chances created over five matches, Vega provided an assist in the group stage against Suriname and scored against Saudi Arabia in the quarterfinals. Altogether, he has netted seven goals in 44 appearances for Mexico.
What are your thoughts on this combined lineup ahead of the exciting Gold Cup final?
