Particle.news
Download on the App Store
23 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Houston to Host First Gold Cup Final as Mexico Holds Modest Edge Over US

It offers both teams a dress rehearsal for the 2026 World Cup under an expected 4-to-1 pro-Mexico crowd.

Image

Overview

  • The United States and Mexico will face off on July 6 at NRG Stadium, marking the first time Houston hosts the Gold Cup championship match.
  • Betting markets have shifted to make Mexico a +145 favorite over the US at +190, driven by heavy Mexico fan turnout and ticket demand.
  • US coach Mauricio Pochettino has fielded a new-look squad without established stars like Christian Pulisic to test depth under hostile conditions.
  • Mexican-American forward Diego Luna emerged as a standout for the USMNT, scoring both goals in their 2-1 semifinal victory over Guatemala.
  • Mexico seeks a record-extending 10th Gold Cup title and aims to affirm recent gains under coach Javier Aguirre ahead of co-hosting the 2026 World Cup.