Mexico secured the top spot in Group A of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup despite a scoreless draw against Costa Rica on Sunday, June 22nd, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Both teams had already clinched their spots in the quarterfinals, but the match determined who would win the group and potentially face an easier opponent in the next round.

Entering the match, Mexico held a slight advantage due to a superior goal difference. A draw was sufficient for El Tri to secure the top spot, while Costa Rica needed a victory to leapfrog them. The match was a tactical affair, with both teams showcasing strong defensive organization.

Mexico had previously defeated the Dominican Republic 3-2 and Suriname 2-0, displaying a knack for set-piece goals, with four of their five goals in the group stage coming from corner kicks. Costa Rica, managed by former Mexico national team head coach Miguel Herrera, had earned comeback victories against Suriname (4-3) and the Dominican Republic (2-1), showcasing the dangerous duo of Manfred Ugalde and Josimar Alcocer, who were responsible for five of their six goals in the tournament.

The scoreless draw meant that Mexico finished the group stage with 7 points and a +3 goal difference, while Costa Rica also had 7 points but a +2 goal difference. The result allows Mexico to avoid a potential quarterfinal clash with the United States, the winner of Group D, giving them a potentially easier path to the semi-finals. Costa Rica will now face the USMNT.

Throughout the match, both teams had moments of attacking promise but were ultimately unable to break the deadlock. Mexico's defense, led by goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, secured their second clean sheet of the tournament. While Mexico has displayed its dominance in the group stage, some observers note that they have yet to hit top gear in the competition, suggesting there's room for improvement as they head into the knockout rounds.

With the group stage concluded, Mexico now looks ahead to the quarterfinals, where they will aim to continue their quest for a record-extending tenth Gold Cup title. The US is hosting the tournament and is a co-favorite with Mexico to win the championship trophy. Mexico is the defending champion, having won its ninth title in 2023 after defeating Panama 1–0 in the final. The United States Men's National Team has also booked its spot for the quarterfinals, as has rivals Mexico. The top two finishers of each group will advance. The teams already in the eight-team bracket are Mexico and Costa Rica and United States.