USA Women vs Costa Rica Women: match preview on 13 September 2026

The pattern is clear: three consecutive 3:0 victories in the Pan-American Cup, combined with Costa Rica's struggles away from home.

USA have played five matches recently, winning three and losing two, scoring 12 goals while conceding eight. The most telling result came on 13 September when they lost 1:3 to Mexico at home in the Pan-American Cup. Before that they beat Cuba 3:0, lost 2:3 to China, and secured back-to-back 3:0 victories over Brazil and Turkey. They lead the table with five points after one match played.

Costa Rica's run has been far less productive. One win from five matches, four defeats, and a goal difference of 4:13 tells the story. Their only victory came on 9 August 2024 when they beat Trinidad and Tobago 3:1 away. The other four matches all ended in defeat, including a 1:3 loss to Canada and a 0:3 loss to Mexico. They occupy fifth place in the standings with zero points from their opening fixture.

The head-to-head record between these sides is stark. USA have won the last three meetings, all by identical 3:0 margins. The most recent encounter was on 21 August 2024, followed by 6 August 2023 and 24 August 2022. The USA have dominated these encounters, preventing Costa Rica from scoring.

USA lead with five points after one match played, while Costa Rica sit fifth with none after their opening defeat.

The three identical 3:0 results could indicate a ceiling that USA have not consistently exceeded, and a tight defensive display from Costa Rica might produce a lower-scoring outcome. A draw would suit the visitors given their tendency to run the clock down in difficult matches.