Washington: Costa Rica has clinched their spot in the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals by defeating the Dominican Republic 2-1 in their second Group A match of the tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States and Canada.
The Dominican Republic initially took the lead in the 16th minute, but Costa Rica equalized just before halftime with a penalty in the 44th minute. The Ticos secured their victory in the 85th minute with the decisive goal.
In another Group A match, Mexico secured their quarterfinal position with a 2-0 win over Suriname. César Montes netted both goals for El Tri in the 57th and 63rd minutes.
As a result, Mexico now tops the group with a flawless six points, holding a one-goal advantage over second-placed Costa Rica, who also have six points. Both Suriname and the Dominican Republic remain without points after two matches.
The upcoming final group stage match between Mexico and Costa Rica will determine the group winner and runner-up, although both teams have already qualified for the knockout stage.
According to the tournament format, the Group A winner will face the runner-up of Group D, which consists of the United States, Saudi Arabia, Haiti, and Trinidad and Tobago, in the quarterfinals. The Group A runner-up will compete against the Group D winner.
The tournament features 16 teams divided into four groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stage.
