Mexico Draws Costa Rica, Wins Gold Cup Group A in Las Vegas

In a highly contested Group A finale at the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Mexico and Costa Rica played to a 0-0 draw at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with Mexico securing the group win due to a superior goal difference. The match featured a dramatic moment in stoppage time when Santiago Giménez's spectacular bicycle kick goal for Mexico was disallowed after VAR ruled an offside in the buildup, sparking widespread debate. Mexico dominated possession and created several chances, but were repeatedly denied by a strong defensive display led by Costa Rica's goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Both teams had already qualified for the quarterfinals, setting up Mexico to face Saudi Arabia and Costa Rica to meet the United States. The game also highlighted the contrasting trajectories of the teams, with Mexico aiming to maintain regional dominance while Costa Rica, under Miguel Herrera, is rebuilding with a young squad showing notable progress. The coaches' personal history added intrigue, as Herrera previously managed Mexico, intensifying the encounter's narrative.