‘See you in the Gold Cup final’ - Mexico's Javier Aguirre shares message from Costa Rica's Miguel Herrera ahead of quarterfinals

This weekend’s scoreless draw between Mexico and Costa Rica was more than just a result - it was a symbolic face-off between two of Mexico’s most iconic coaches. Javier “Vasco” Aguirre, who guided the national team at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, went head-to-head with Miguel “Piojo” Herrera, the man who led El Tri at Brazil 2014. The matchup, staged at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, carried extra significance with both sides battling for top spot in Group A.

Thanks to the draw, Mexico clinched first place in the group and will now face Saudi Arabia in the quarterfinals. Costa Rica, meanwhile, will take on tournament hosts United States - a matchup Herrera is confident his side can win.

After the match, Aguirre shared a light-hearted moment between the two coaches.

“I told Miguel, ‘See you at the World Cup.’ He answered, ‘No, see you in the Gold Cup final,'" Aguirre revealed.

Herrera remains true to himself - confident and bold - as he continues his tenure as Costa Rica’s head coach during the 2025 Gold Cup.

From the moment the draw placed his team in the same group as Mexico, Herrera exuded belief in his squad’s ability to beat Javier Aguirre’s side. Just days before the match, he even declared he’d throw a celebration if they pulled off the win. While Costa Rica didn’t get the victory, they also avoided defeat, and Herrera walked away satisfied with the goalless draw.

Up next is arguably his biggest test yet as Costa Rica manager - a quarterfinal clash against the United States. The USMNT entered the tournament surrounded by questions, but have since found their rhythm, winning all three of their group stage matches. Despite the challenge ahead, Herrera’s confidence hasn’t wavered. He remains convinced that his team will reach the final - and when they do, he plans to beat Mexico there.

Herrera struck a measured tone after learning his side will face the USMNT in the quarterfinals.

“No fireworks yet, but we’re calm - we had a solid group stage. We finished undefeated, but we know there’s plenty to improve. The next game will be even tougher," he said.

Los Ticos now face a high-stakes showdown against Mauricio Pochettino’s United States, who cruised through Group B with victories over Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Haiti.

Costa Rica are aiming to take a major step forward on Sunday against the USMNT, as they seek to reach their first Gold Cup final in 23 years - their only previous appearance came in 2002, also against the United States. In that final, the Americans won 2-0.