Alexi Lalas' Top 10 Players at the Gold Cup: Which U.S. Star Is No. 1?

The CONCACAF Gold Cup is the best chance for players to make a big impression and convince their coaches to be considered for next year's World Cup. 

Help your team make a run to the final, and you'll be in the mix for 2026. But if you falter, then you may see someone else pass you up.

Luckily for these 10 players, they're making the most of this tournament. Let's rank them and see what has stood out: 

Richards has been exceptional for the USMNT. In the match against Saudi Arabia, the center back scored the only goal of the game and was a key defensive presence. Look for Richards to keep making an impact in the quarterfinal game.

Álvarez has proven why he wears the captain's armband for Mexico. In the opening matchup against the Dominican Republic, Álvarez scored and assisted on two of Mexico’s three goals.  He was vital in helping Mexico secure the top spot in Group A with a scoreless draw against Costa Rica.

Another standout for the USMNT, who scored two goals in the opening group stage match against Trinidad and Tobago and added another in the final group match against Haiti. Tillman is the team’s leading scorer, but he isn’t just putting goals on the board—he’s been active in the midfield battle, registering six tackles in the match against Saudi Arabia. 

The Mexico center back also shares the lead for most goals (three) across all teams in the Gold Cup. He scored both goals in Mexico’s group stage win against Suriname, a 2–0 win. Montes scored again in the game against the Dominican Republic – his goal was the difference in the 3–2 match.

The work of Panama’s left-winger hasn't shown up in the box score, but he’s been in the middle of the team's success, setting up attacks and controlling the midfield. Even though