Gold Cup 2013: Ranking United States and Top Tournament Contenders

The 2013 Gold Cup will take on an increased level of importance, as the champion will get a berth in a playoff with the 2015 tournament winner to represent CONCACAF in the Confederations Cup. Previously, the off-year event had no bearing on that berth.

The new rule should provide some much-needed intrigue to the regional competition.

The United States and Mexico have faced off in three straight tournament finals, and it's been 13 years since a final didn't include one of those sides, illustrating their dominance. They are once again the top contenders heading into this year's CONCACAF showcase.

With that in mind, let's take a closer look at the top three teams, including the one with the best chance to knock off the regional powerhouses.

1. United States

Sparked by the return of Landon Donovan, the Americans earned a thoroughly impressive 6-0 friendly victory over Guatemala in a tournament tune-up. The longtime U.S. star scored twice, bringing his international tally to 51.

The United States' attacking depth gives it the edge. Along with Donovan, Herculez Gomez, Stuart Holden, Jose Francisco Torres and Mikkel Diskerud were all impressive during their stints in the friendly. A return to form by Holden would be particularly helpful.

The biggest question mark comes at the back. Nick Rimando must command his back line better during the tournament after multiple communication issues against Guatemala. If they clean those issues up, the Americans will emerge as the clear favorites.

2. Mexico

While the United States is going with a mix of its “A” and “B” squads, Mexico enters the tournament with a talented yet very inexperienced group. Only two players on the roster have made more than 10 appearances for the national team.

Marco Fabian is the player to watch. The 23-year-old midfielder has displayed plenty of offensive potential and helped lead Mexico to the gold medal at last year's Olympics. That experience will help during the knockout stage.

Even though El Tri have depth, they will need a couple other players to step up alongside Fabian to win the title. Jorge Enriquez and Raul Jimenez are among the players capable of filling that role, but they must prove it before Mexico can move ahead of the U.S.

3. Costa Rica

The United States and Mexico continue to remain a step above the rest of CONCACAF. That said, if there's one side capable of completing a Gold Cup shocker, it's Costa Rica. The Ticos' roster features numerous veterans capable of making life tough on the two powers.

Forward Alvaro Saborio, who plays for Real Salt Lake, is the side's most experienced international player and also its leading scorer. He's tallied 30 goals for the Ticos, including one against the United States in World Cup qualifying back in 2009.

Costa Rica should be strong at the back, led by Michael Umana and Roy Miller. The only question mark is whether or not it will have enough firepower behind Saborio to keep pace with the U.S. or Mexico in the knockout rounds. There's a good chance fans will find out, as the Ticos should make a deep run.