The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to face Costa Rica in an international friendly on January 22, 2025, at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida.
This encounter offers both teams a valuable opportunity to assess their squads as they prepare for upcoming competitive fixtures.
United States:
Under the guidance of new manager Mauricio Pochettino, the USMNT began 2025 with a promising 3-1 victory over Venezuela.
The match showcased the potential of several young talents, with goals from Jack McGlynn, Patrick Agyemang, and Matko Miljevic. Pochettino’s emphasis on integrating MLS-based players during the January camp highlights his commitment to building depth within the squad.
Orlando has historically been a fortress for the USMNT, boasting a perfect 6-0 record in the city, outscoring opponents 22-2.
Costa Rica:
Costa Rica enters this match under the new leadership of experienced manager Miguel “Piojo” Herrera, who aims to rejuvenate the squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Herrera’s inaugural roster comprises primarily domestic league players, reflecting a strategic focus on nurturing local talent.
Key players to watch include goalkeepers Esteban Alvarado and Anthony Walker, defenders Fernán Faerrón and Santiago van der Putten, and forwards Diego Campos and Andy Rojas.
Historically, the USMNT and Costa Rica have had a competitive rivalry. In their most recent encounter in March 2022, Costa Rica secured a 2-0 victory during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Overall, the United States has a strong home record against Costa Rica, winning their last four meetings on American soil, with three clean sheets during that span.
Considering the current form and historical context, the United States is favored to win this friendly match. The USMNT’s recent performances, combined with their home advantage and perfect record in Orlando, bolster their prospects. Conversely, Costa Rica is in a transitional phase under new management, which may impact their cohesion on the field.
Predicted Score: USA 2-0 Costa Rica
Betting Tips:
This friendly serves as a crucial test for both nations as they fine-tune their strategies ahead of significant tournaments. The USMNT aims to continue their positive momentum under Pochettino, while Costa Rica looks to establish a new era with Herrera at the helm. Fans can anticipate an engaging match that not only rekindles a regional rivalry but also provides insights into the future trajectories of both teams.
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