The association football competition at the 2002 Central American and Caribbean Games was held between 23 November and 7 December 2002, although qualification took place beforehand.

El Salvador, the tournament's host, drew with Mexico in the final 1–1, eventually defeating Mexico in a penalty shoot-out 4–3, winning its second title and the first title since 1954.

[1] Twelve nations participated in the tournament, and all of the teams sent were each nation's U-21 team.

[2] Cuba withdrew and was replaced by the Dominican Republic.

[2] Ten of the teams which participated were from CONCACAF with the remaining two being from CONMEBOL.