One year out from co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mexico is setting the tone for what it hopes will be a resurgence on the international stage. Their journey begins with a familiar regional challenge: the CONCACAF Gold Cup. This year, however, they face a unique opponent—a debutant Dominican Republic side looking to make history.
As El Tri prepares to defend their 2023 Gold Cup title, anticipation has built not only around their star-studded roster but also their recent form and coaching shifts. And while fans and pundits are eager to dissect how Mexico might line up, it’s the bigger narrative—a regional powerhouse colliding with a determined newcomer—that adds intrigue to this opening group-stage clash.
Mexico’s road to redemption
After a turbulent run at the 2022 World Cup, where they exited in the group stage, Mexico was left to rebuild. The federation made a bold call by rehiring Javier Aguirre for a third stint at the helm in 2024, and so far, the gamble has paid off. Mexico won the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League in March, defeating Panama 3–1 in the final, a result that reestablished their dominance in the region.
They warmed up for the Gold Cup with mixed results: a 4-2 loss to Switzerland followed by a 1-0 win over Turkey. The latter match, in particular, gave some fringe players a chance to shine—midfielder Marcel Ruiz stood out, sparking debate over whether he might replace more established names in the starting XI.
Though still not a perfect side, Mexico enters the Gold Cup as co-favorites with the United States and Canada, and Saturday’s matchup against the Dominican Republic marks the beginning of their Group A campaign. They’ll later face Suriname and Costa Rica before potentially heading to the knockout rounds.
Aguirre made some bold selections ahead of the tournament. “We’re building with a purpose. It’s a new generation with hunger,” he told reporters earlier this week. Notably absent from the squad are Gerardo Arteaga, Uriel Antuna, Luis Romo, Diego Lainez, and Erick Sanchez, all experienced internationals. The shake-up suggests Aguirre is prioritizing both current form and long-term development.
Historic moment for the Dominican Republic
While Mexico looks to continue its regional dominance, the Dominican Republic is preparing to make its Gold Cup debut, finally qualifying for the tournament on its 15th attempt. After years of obscurity on the international stage, Los Quisqueyanos arrive with just one loss in their last 11 matches across all competitions.
Their recent run in World Cup qualifying included a 4–2 loss to Guatemala, followed by a 5-0 rout of Dominica, showing both their flaws and potential. Saturday’s match against Mexico will be a baptism by fire, but it also marks a monumental moment for football in the Dominican Republic.
A few names in the Dominican lineup may catch the attention of European football fans. Former Real Madrid striker Mariano Diaz, now 31, is finally set to lead his national team after a tumultuous international journey. “I never stopped dreaming of wearing this shirt again,” Mariano said after rejoining the squad in March.
Also in the squad is full-back Junior Firpo, who often takes on a more advanced role for his country, and Real Madrid Castilla’s Edgar Pujol, a 20-year-old defender who switched allegiances from Spain to the Dominican Republic this year.
Mexico expected starting XI (4-4-2)
Malagon; Jorge Sanchez, Montes, Reyes, Gallardo; Pineda, Edson Alvarez, Marcel Ruiz, Huerta; Raul Jimenez, Santiago Gimenez.
Dominican Republic expected starting XI (4-4-2)
Lloyd; Pujol, Dollenmayer, de Lucas, Firpo; Pedro Gonzalez, J. Lopez, Rosario, Ronaldo Vasquez; Mariano Diaz, Dorny Romero.
