The Costa Rican national team and the United States are making final preparations for their pivotal quarterfinal match in the Gold Cup, scheduled for Sunday, June 29, at 5 p.m. Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the U.S. team, expressed his happiness about Keylor Navas’s performance, although he clarified that Navas will not be leaving his role with the national team to play for the Americans.
Pochettino, who previously managed Navas at PSG, is pleased to see the Costa Rican goalkeeper performing well with Newell’s Old Boys, a club with which he has a personal connection. Pochettino himself began his professional career at Newell’s and highlighted the significance of discussing Navas’s impact both past and present.
“We had a good relationship at PSG, and I’m glad to see Keylor in the Newell’s squad defending the net as he does. He is among the best goalkeepers in the world,” Pochettino stated.
The coach reminisced about his roots, noting that Newell’s was where he made his professional debut at 17. He remains in touch with the team and expressed admiration for Navas’s mindset and skillset, labeling him a reference point of excellence at all levels and a blessing to have known him.
As they face a top-tier rival in the Gold Cup quarterfinals, both teams are poised for a competitive match that will showcase the talents of players like Navas, which can be an inspiring moment for Costa Rica. This match represents not only a battle for advancement but also a chance for Navas to shine on a significant stage once again.