When the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup Prelims kicked off on Friday, March 21, 2025, it wasn’t just a qualifier—it was a statement. Costa Rica didn’t just beat Belize—they erased them. A 7-0 thrashing at FFB Stadium in Belmopan sent shockwaves through the region, with Álvaro Zamora scoring twice and Jeyland Mitchell and Josimar Alcocer adding goals in the final 20 minutes. Meanwhile, Honduras survived a wild 5-3 road win over Bermuda at Bermuda National Stadium, and Jamaica held firm in a 1-1 draw with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, setting up a decisive second leg. These weren’t just wins—they were declarations of intent.
Seeding Meets Reality: The Power of Concacaf Rankings
The draw had been shaped by the Concacaf Rankings, and the results proved those numbers weren’t just bureaucratic noise. Costa Rica, seeded #1 with 1,658 points (5th globally), looked every bit the favorite. Jamaica (#2, 1,574 points) and Honduras (#3, 1,513 points) followed suit, their physicality and tactical discipline on full display. These weren’t random matchups—they were chess moves. The fourteen teams competing were drawn from League A, B, and C of the Concacaf Nations League, meaning the Prelims pitted regional powerhouses against hungry underdogs. And the underdogs? They didn’t just lose—they got outclassed.
Matchday Highlights: Goals, Misses, and Turning Points
The most dramatic moment came in Paramaribo, where Suriname edged Martinique 1-0. Gyrano Kerk’s 52nd-minute finish, assisted by Denzel Jubitana, was pure instinct. But the real story? Gleofilo Vlijter missing a penalty in the 66th minute. One moment, and the entire momentum could’ve shifted. It didn’t. In Guatemala City, Guatemala beat Bermuda 3-1, with José Pinto converting a penalty in the 80th minute—a crucial away goal that would later prove decisive in the aggregate.
The numbers tell the story: Costa Rica won 13-1 on aggregate, Honduras 7-3, and Jamaica 4-1. These weren’t narrow escapes—they were demolitions. Even Trinidad and Tobago, who’d been written off by some, crushed Cuba 6-1 on aggregate. The message was clear: the top tier of Concacaf isn’t just stronger—it’s exponentially more clinical.
What’s at Stake: The Road to Houston
The seven winners of the Prelims joined nine automatic qualifiers to form the 16-team 2025 Gold Cup. The group stage, running from June 14 to June 24, 2025, sets the tone. Costa Rica lands in Group A with Mexico, Suriname, and the Dominican Republic. Honduras faces Canada, El Salvador, and Curaçao in Group B. And Jamaica? They’re in Group C with Panama, Guatemala, and Guadeloupe.
The knockout stage begins June 28, with the final set for July 6 at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas. That’s not just a venue—it’s a stage. The winner doesn’t just lift a trophy. They earn a World Cup playoff spot. And with Saudi Arabia making their debut in Group D, the tournament’s global footprint is expanding.
Behind the Scenes: The Human Element
What fans don’t see? The logistics. Players flying from Belmopan to Fort-de-France in under 48 hours. Coaches studying footage on planes. Goalkeepers in Paramaribo training in 90% humidity, knowing one mistake could end their dream. And then there’s the pressure: Belize lost 7-0. Their coach was fired before the plane landed. That’s the reality of Concacaf football. It’s not glamorous. But it’s real.
What’s Next? The Knockout Math
Now that the Prelims are done, the focus shifts to group dynamics. Costa Rica and Honduras are favorites, but Guatemala and Jamaica have the squad depth to surprise. Watch for Álvaro Zamora—he’s now the top scorer in the Prelims. Watch for Suriname—they’ve never made it past the group stage. And watch for Curaçao and Trinidad and Tobago. They’re the dark horses with something to prove.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Costa Rica’s 7-0 win impact their Gold Cup seeding?
Costa Rica’s 7-0 win over Belize wasn’t just about goals—it reinforced their status as the tournament’s top seed. With 1,658 Concacaf Ranking points, their dominance validated their position ahead of Jamaica and Honduras. The result also boosted their confidence heading into Group A, where they’ll face Mexico. A strong start here could position them as serious contenders for the final in Houston.
Who were the biggest surprises in the Prelims?
Suriname’s 1-0 win over Martinique was the most unexpected result. Ranked lower than their opponent, they held firm defensively and capitalized on a single chance. Similarly, Guatemala’s 3-1 win over Bermuda—despite being away—showed they’ve improved significantly since their 2023 Nations League campaign. Both teams now carry momentum into the group stage.
Why is the final being held in Houston?
Houston’s Shell Energy Stadium was chosen for its central location, large capacity (over 22,000), and strong fan support for international soccer. It’s hosted multiple Concacaf matches since 2021, including the 2023 Gold Cup semifinal. The city’s proximity to Mexico and Central America ensures strong attendance, making it a strategic pick for the final.
How did the Concacaf Rankings determine the Prelims matchups?
The rankings—based on results from the 2022–23 Nations League and World Cup qualifiers—seeded the top teams to avoid early clashes. Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Honduras were placed against lower-ranked teams from League B and C. This ensured higher-ranked sides faced manageable opponents, reducing upsets and increasing competitive balance in the final tournament.
What does Saudi Arabia’s inclusion mean for the tournament?
Saudi Arabia’s debut as a guest nation signals Concacaf’s growing global outreach. Though not a member, they were invited to boost international exposure and commercial interest. Their presence adds a new dynamic—especially in Group D alongside Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago—and could influence future invitations from other AFC nations looking for competitive exposure.
Which players should fans watch in the group stage?
Beyond Álvaro Zamora, keep an eye on Jamaica’s Kevon Lambert, who controls the midfield with precision, and Honduras’ Jonathan de León, whose speed on the wings terrorized Bermuda. Guatemala’s Josué Quijano, who scored twice in the Prelims, is also emerging as a breakout star. These players could define the tournament’s narrative beyond the traditional powerhouses.
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