Group D action at the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup kicks off this Sunday as the United States hosts Trinidad and Tobago at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. Both nations arrive at the tournament under pressure to reverse recent poor form and make a strong start.
United States Team News & Predicted XI
The U.S. Men’s National Team enters the Gold Cup on the back of a troubling four-match losing streak, most recently falling 4-0 to Switzerland in a pre-tournament friendly. Under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the Americans have struggled for attacking rhythm—failing to register a single shot on target against the Swiss.
With several senior players rested or unavailable, the U.S. is expected to field a younger squad focused on building chemistry and gaining tournament experience.
USA projected starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Freese (GK) — Harriel, M. Robinson, McKenzie, Arfsten — De la Torre, Adams — Sullivan, P. Aaronson, Wright — Agyemang
Expect midfield leadership from Tyler Adams, while Paxten Aaronson and Quinn Sullivan will be looked upon to generate chances behind striker Agyemang.
Trinidad and Tobago Team News & Predicted XI
Led by former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke, Trinidad and Tobago come into this Gold Cup after a 2-1 defeat to Costa Rica in World Cup qualifying. The Soca Warriors have lost three of their last four matches, conceding 11 goals during that stretch.
However, the team has a recent history of starting Gold Cup campaigns solidly. Trinidad have gone unbeaten in their last two tournament openers (2021 and 2023), keeping a clean sheet in both.
Trinidad and Tobago projected starting XI (5-4-1):
Phillip (GK) — Cardines, Raymond, A. Jones, Bateau, Spicer — Sealy, Molino, Phillips, Fortune — L. Garcia
Veteran midfielder Kevin Molino provides creative spark, while striker Levi Garcia remains Trinidad’s biggest attacking threat.
Match Outlook
The United States will look to dominate possession and apply early pressure as they seek to end their losing skid. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago will likely sit deep and absorb pressure, hoping to strike on the counter through Garcia’s pace and Molino’s vision.
Both teams have plenty to prove as Group D gets underway. For the U.S., anything less than a convincing win will raise serious questions, while Trinidad aim to build on their record of strong Gold Cup openers and chase a long-awaited knockout stage berth.
