Concacaf Gold Cup: What to Watch in Quarterfinals
United States vs. Costa Rica
This matchup sees one current and one former Ligue 1 McDonald's clashing with Toulouse FC's Mark McKenzie suiting up for the Americans. It's been a challenging Gold Cup for the defender, who appeared in the 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago but remained on the bench for two straight matches. It will be interesting to see if McKenzie can see the pitch in this knockout matchup.
While not currently playing in France's top flight, French football fans know the name Keylor Navas as he was a Paris Saint-Germain player from 2019-2024, with a loan stint at Nottingham Forest in 2023. The 38-year-old has started all three matches for Costa Rica, recording a clean sheet against Mexico on the final matchday of the group stage.
Panama vs. Honduras
Olympique de Marseille's Michael Amir Murillo has been a standout performer for Panama at the Gold Cup, featuring in two of the three group stage matches.
The 29-year-old recorded two assists, helping the Panamanian side secure two wins as they had three victories in group play. Panama reached the final of the 2023 and will need Murrillo if they want to get off on the right foot to reach a final for a second straight Gold Cup.
Canada vs. Guatemala
After not featuring in the first match for Canada, OM's Ismaël Koné played in the final two group stage matches for manager Jesse Marsch. The 23-year-old was a starter in one contest against Curaçao while coming off the bench in the win over El Salvador.
As for LOSC Lille's Jonathan David, the Canadian striker has been a starter in all three group-stage matches, scoring one goal. David will look to be a more dangerous threat for Canada in the group stage to help them advance past Guatemala and the final. Without Alphonso Davies, the Canadian squad won't only be leaning on David for his goals but his leadership as well.
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