CONCACAF Gold Cup 16-Nation Tournament Opens Amid Player Absences, Political Concerns

The 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup kicks off with 16 teams competing, including defending champion Mexico and the United States seeking their eighth title. Mexico, led by coach Javier Aguirre, views the tournament as crucial preparation for the World Cup, while the U.S. team, coached by Mauricio Pochettino, plans to use the Gold Cup to test tactical options without fielding its strongest lineup. The tournament features many young and secondary players due to injuries and scheduling conflicts with the Club World Cup, with notable absences such as Canada's Alphonso Davies and the U.S.'s Christian Pulisic. Matches will be held across 14 stadiums in 11 locations, with the final in Houston. The competition unfolds amid concerns in the U.S. Latino community over immigration enforcement and deportation policies enacted during President Trump's administration, causing canceled fan events and anxiety ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. CONCACAF has emphasized the safety and well-being of all participants and fans as the tournament progresses during this tense environment.