Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic will face off in a pivotal Group A encounter in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, scheduled for June 19th at 11:00 PM UTC at AT&T Stadium. With Costa Rica eyeing a knockout stage spot and the Dominican Republic searching for their first Gold Cup win, this clash promises high-intensity football and fresh competition history.
Head-to-Head: Costa Rica in Control
| Matches | Costa Rica Wins | Dominican Republic Wins | Draws | Goals (CRC-DR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 8-1 |
- 2013 Friendly: Costa Rica 4-0
- 1990 CAC Games: Costa Rica 4-1
This will be their first-ever meeting in the Gold Cup.
Costa Rica’s Form and Key Statistics
Costa Rica heads into this matchup riding high on their perfect form, having won both of their opening games in the Gold Cup.
Matches Played: 2
Wins: 2
Losses: 0
Draws: 0
Goals Scored: 6
Goals Conceded: 1
Goal Difference: +5
Average Time to Score (Home): 12.9 minutes
Home Average Goals: 12.9 (this figure is notably high; likely includes some outliers) They’ve demonstrated a powerful offense and a solid defense.
With 100% home scoring success, they’ll carry momentum into this fixture. Manfred Ugalde, who scored a hat-trick against Suriname, will again be central to their game plan.
Dominican Republic’s Performance and Challenges
Despite showing attacking promise in their only match so far, the Dominican Republic fell short against Mexico. Defensive lapses will be a concern.
Matches Played: 1
Wins: 0
Losses: 1
Draws: 0
Goals Scored: 2
Goals Conceded: 3
Goal Difference: -1
Average Time to Score (Away): 18 minutes
Away Average Goals: 18 (statistical anomaly—likely per match type)
They’ll need to fix defensive vulnerabilities to stand a chance against Costa Rica’s high-speed, high-press system.
Recent Results Summary
Costa Rica 4-3 Suriname
Scorers: Martínez (14’), Ugalde (19’, 90’), Alcócer (76’)
Pulled off a late comeback win with impressive composure.
Dominican Republic 2-3 Mexico
Scorers: Peter González (51’), Edison Azcona (67’)
Gave the defending champs a scare with bold attacking play.
Team News & Probable Lineups
Costa Rica
Injuries: Ariel Lassiter (hand), Warren Madrigal (leg)
Coach: Miguel Herrera
Key Player: Manfred Ugalde—lethal striker with 3 goals last match
Predicted XI: Navas (GK); C. Mora, Mitchell, Calvo, Vargas; Brenes, Galo, Aguilera; Martinez, Alcócer, Ugalde
Dominican Republic
Coach: Marcelo Neveleff
Key Player: Xavier Valdez—goalkeeper with 5 key saves vs. Mexico
Predicted XI: Valdez (GK); Pujol, Rosario, Kaparos, Firpo; Morschel, Dollenmayer, Gonzalez, Lopez; Reyes, Romero
Tactical Insight: Grit vs. Gaps
Costa Rica uses rapid transitions and fluent front-three movement in their games. Even without Lassiter, their midfield and forward link-up is elite. Alcócer’s distribution and Ugalde’s finishing are vital threats.
The Dominican Republic showed they can score but must tighten their backline. Expect Valdez to be busy again, and their midfield must absorb Costa Rica’s pace.
Key Matchups to Watch
Can the DR defense stop Costa Rica's leading scorer in Ugalde vs. Rosario/Kaparos?
Will DR Midfield have the stamina to stifle Alcócer's inventiveness?
Keylor Navas vs. DR Attack: The seasoned goalie continues to perform well when it matters most.
Match Prediction: Costa Rica Likely to Clinch It
Costa Rica’s form, squad depth, and tactical cohesion give them a clear edge. The Dominican Republic will likely score but fall short in keeping the net safe.
Final Prediction: Costa Rica 3-1 Dominican Republic
Alternative Betting Tips
Correct Score 3-1 @ 9.00
Over 3.5 Total Goals @ 2.25
Ugalde Anytime Scorer @ 2.30
Both Teams to Score—YES @ 1.80
Current Betting Odds & Win Probability (Stake.com, powered by Donde Bonuses)
- Costa Rica: 1.47 (65%)
- Draw: 4.40 (21%)
- Dominican Republic: 6.60 (14%)
Expert Betting Advice—Backing the Underdog?
While Costa Rica is the clear favorite, some experts point to a Double Chance (X2) bet—Dominican Republic to win or draw—as a valuable long-shot option given their fearless performance against Mexico.
Best Value Bet: Double Chance – X2 (high risk, high reward)
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Eyes on the Knockouts
The Dominican Republic is eager to shine on the big stage, while Costa Rica is focused on moving ahead. This Group A match is built on history, ambition, and high stakes. Whether you're after some exciting moments or thinking about placing smart bets on Stake.com, this is a game you won't want to miss in the 2025 Gold Cup.
