The United States qualified for the 2025 Gold Cup Final after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a combative Guatemala at the renovated Energizer Park. Although the home side dominated much of the match, the final minutes turned dramatic against a Guatemalan team that turned in its best performance in three decades.
The team coached by Mauricio Pochettino started with forcefulness. In the third minute, a shot by Luca de la Torre generated a bad rejection by goalkeeper Kénderson Navarro, which was taken advantage of by Diego Luna to score the first goal.
Diego Luna: double and figure
Diego Luna became the key player in the match between the United States and Guatemala.
In the 14th minute, the Mexican-born midfielder scored his second goal after a great team move initiated by Malik Tillman.
Luna received the ball outside the box, classily dribbled past a defender and fired powerfully for 2-0.
His performance not only led the team, but also established him as one of the emerging names in U.S. soccer.
Guatemala: historic and dignified delivery
Far from giving up, Guatemala adjusted its strategy against the United States in the second half.
Although he made no immediate changes, coach Luis Fernando Tena pressed higher and his team showed determination.
After 75 minutes, five fresh players were brought in to revitalize the attack.
The prize came in the 80th minute.
Arquímides Ordóñez broke down the left and played a precise pass to Olvera Escobar, who shot past the U.S. goalkeeper to make it 2-1.
The goal awakened the hopes of the Chapinas, but despite their drive in the final minutes, they were unable to equalize.
Los últimos minutos se volvieron dramáticos
With this participation, Guatemala reached the Gold Cup semifinals for the first time in 30 years.
Confirming the progress of his current generation and leaving a positive impression on the U.S. Latino community.
USA vs. Mexico: the dream Final
Buzzy
The United States will face Mexico this Sunday, July 6 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, in another edition of the CONCACAF classic.
A full house is expected, with a strong presence of Latino fans and high demand for Spanish-language broadcasts on Univision and ViX.
The duel promises to be one of the most exciting in the last decade, with both teams arriving at different times but with emerging stars that could define the match.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
