The CONCACAF Gold Cup has seen numerous thrilling matches since its inception in 1991. But which Gold Cup games are the best of all time?
Five matches stand out for their drama, quality of play, and historical significance. Here are the five best Gold Cup games that come to mind:
1. USA vs. Mexico, 2007 Final
This match is often called one of the best Gold Cup games due to the intense rivalry between the two teams. The thrilling encounter ended with a 2-1 victory for the US.
Benny Feilhaber’s stunning volley in the 73rd minute sealed the victory for the USMNT and is still considered one of the tournament’s greatest goals.
2. Mexico vs. Panama, 2015 Semi-Final
This game was a rollercoaster ride, with Panama leading the game until the 88th minute despite being down to 10 men. Mexico earned a controversial penalty, allowing them to equalize and win the game in extra time.
The match stands out for its tension, controversy, and Panama’s exceptional performance despite all odds. Referee Mark Geiger later admitted to game-altering errors but refused to confirm match-fixing.
Mexico won their seventh Gold Cup that year.
3. Mexico vs. Trinidad and Tobago 2015 Group stage
Gold Cup fans recall the group stage match between Mexico and Trinidad & Tobago during the 2015 Gold Cup as one of the tournament’s most exciting games due to its high-scoring nature and dramatic twists and turns.
Played on July 15, 2015, the match ended in a thrilling 4-4 draw. Mexico seemed to have the game under control with a 2-0 lead at the beginning of the second half, courtesy of goals from Paul Aguilar and Carlos Vela.
But Trinidad & Tobago staged a fantastic comeback, scoring three goals in 13 minutes, including a brace from Keron Cummings. Trinidad & Tobago’s dramatic turnaround stunned Mexico, but Andres Guardado managed to equalize for El Tri, making the score 3-3.
In the game’s dying minutes, it appeared Mexico would steal a victory when Trinidad & Tobago scored an own goal, making it 4-3. But in the match’s final moments, the Soca Warriors’ Yohance Marshall scored a header to tie the game at 4-4.
Talk about high-scoring drama combined with a rollercoaster of emotions. As previously stated, Mexico took home the Gold Cup that year.
4. USA vs. Mexico 2021 Final
This game marked the seventh occasion that Mexico and the United States faced in a Gold Cup final. While El Tri usually went off triumphant, the Americans did their best to scupper the fun this time.
Miles Robinson scored a 117th-minute header to seal the USMNT’s seventh Gold Cup title.
5. Canada vs. Colombia, 2000 Final
This game is historical as Canada went on to win the Gold Cup this year, marking the first time neither Mexico nor the United States won the Cup.
The game ended in a 2-0 victory, with goals from Jason deVos and Carlo Corazzin. Corazzin’s goal came from a penalty kick, securing his position as the tournament’s top scorer.
Photo: Twitter/LinnersWosers
