Costa Rica

Costa Rica have never won the Gold Cup. Their best finish was as a runner-up in 2002, however they have participated in 16 Gold Cups.

What to expect

Costa Rica are not yet the team that surprised the football world with their 2014 World Cup run in Brazil that took them to quarter finals and a penalty shoot-out loss against the Netherlands. That team was built around a talented generation of older players that included the mercurial Bryan Ruiz who had the ability to change a game and frequently did for his country. And gone is all-time top scorer

The last three years have been difficult for the Costa Ricans as they sought to rebuild around a younger group of players. In goal they still have former Real Madrid stopper Kaylor Navas who is closing in on 40-years-of-age, but the squad does have 17 players born 2000 or later.

Costa Rica have lost their Central American supremacy to Panama in recent years but are motivated to regain the upper hand. They have a way to go in that regard but signs are that they will soon be knocking hard on Panama’s door.

Costa Rica lost 3-0 to Mexico in the 2023 Nations League final – the last time they challenged hard for continental honours – but aim to challenge under Miguel Herrera’s tactical overhaul.

In World Cup 2026 qualifying they are comfortably through to the third round of Concacaf qualifying that will see 12 teams in three groups. Group winners qualify directly for 2026 and with Canada, Mexico and the USA pre-qualified as hosts, the Gold Cup comes at the right time for them to measure their progress.

Coach: Miguel Herrera

The former Mexico manager played as a right-back, representing several clubs, including Atlante, Santos Laguna, Querétaro, and Toros Neza. He was known for his aggressive style and passionate approach to the game which he has carried into his managerial career.

Herrera began his managerial career in the early 2000s, coaching various clubs in Mexico, including Atlante, Monterrey, Veracruz, and Estudiantes Tecos.He gained prominence as the coach of Club América, leading them to the Liga MX title in 2013.

He served as the manager of the Mexico national team from 2013 to 2015, leading them to the 2014 FIFA World Cup and winning the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Herrera is known for his fiery personality and expressive demeanor on the sidelines. He is a tactically astute coach who favours an attacking style of play. He has a reputation for building strong team morale and fostering a winning mentality.

Star Player: Alonso Martínez

The forward who started his career at LD Alajuelense scored in both legs of the 13-1 aggregate qualifier vs. Belize. He now plays as a winger for Major League Soccer club New York City FC.

Alonso is an important part of Costa Rica’s attacking future. He made his debut on 3 June 2021 in a semi-final against Mexico.

Squad: