The 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup continues with an exciting Group B opener between Curacao and El Salvador at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. Curacao returns to the tournament for the first time since 2019, while El Salvador looks to end their five-match winless streak in Gold Cup play.
Game Details
Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Time: 8:15 PM ET / 5:15 PM PT
Venue: PayPal Park, San Jose, CA
TV Broadcast: FOX Sports, Univision, TUDN
Curacao’s Outlook
Curacao enters the tournament in red-hot form, winning five of their last six matches across all competitions. Under head coach Dick Advocaat, the team has developed a high-scoring attack, netting 19 goals in their last five victories. Curacao’s squad features captain Eloy Room, midfield maestro Leandro Bacuna, and rising star Juninho Bacuna, who has been instrumental in their recent success. Their ability to strike early has been key, as they hold a 100% winning record when scoring first under Advocaat.
El Salvador’s Outlook
El Salvador enters the Gold Cup after securing a spot in the third stage of World Cup qualifying, edging out Puerto Rico by a single point. Despite their struggles in recent Gold Cup tournaments, Los Cuscatlecos have shown resilience, coming from behind to earn results in three matches this year. Led by head coach Hernán Gómez, El Salvador’s squad includes Brayan Gil, who has scored four international goals, and Alexander Larin, the team’s most experienced player. Their defense, anchored by Bryan Tamacas, will need to be sharp against Curacao’s aggressive attack.
Key Matchups to Watch
Juninho Bacuna vs. El Salvador’s Midfield – Bacuna’s creativity and passing ability will test El Salvador’s defensive structure.
Brayan Gil vs. Curacao’s Backline – Gil’s finishing ability could be crucial in breaking Curacao’s defensive setup.
Set-Piece Battle: Leandro Bacuna vs. Alexander Larin – Both players are specialists in dead-ball situations, making set pieces a potential game-changer.
MATCH ODDS
Curacao + 120 Draw + 210 El Salvador + 260
Over 2.5 + 165 Under 2.5 – 215
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, June 16, 2025
