In a thrilling semifinal showdown at the Energizer Park in St. Louis City on July 2, 2025, the United States men's national soccer team (USMNT) edged past Guatemala with a 2-1 victory, securing their spot in the final of the Concacaf Gold Cup 2025. The match was a captivating display of skill, resilience, and emerging talent, highlighted by a standout performance from Diego Luna, who scored both goals for the USMNT and earned the Player of the Match honors.
The atmosphere was electric as 22,403 fans packed the stadium, with a significant contingent of passionate Guatemalan supporters making their presence felt. The stakes were high, with the USMNT aiming to reach their first Gold Cup final since 2021 and Guatemala seeking their maiden final appearance in this prestigious tournament.
From the outset, the United States asserted dominance. Just four minutes into the game, Diego Luna capitalized on a costly error by Guatemalan goalkeeper Kénderson Navarro. After a cross from Alex Freeman to Malik Tillman, Navarro failed to control the ball, allowing Luna to react swiftly and slot a left-footed shot past him, igniting the crowd and giving the USMNT an early lead.
Luna, a mexico-american midfielder known for his tenacity and flair, was far from finished. Eleven minutes later, he showcased his individual brilliance. Receiving a precise cross from Malik Tillman, Luna dribbled past defender José Carlos Pinto with a deft feint and fired a powerful right-footed shot from the edge of the box that nestled into the bottom corner of the net, extending the lead to 2-0. This goal marked Luna’s third in just two matches, underscoring his rapid rise as a key figure in Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.
The early brace from Luna set the tone for the match, but Guatemala, coached by Luis Fernando Tena, did not capitulate easily. Despite trailing, the Guatemalan side showed remarkable spirit, especially in the latter stages of the first half when they outshot the Americans 13-1 in the final 30 minutes, applying intense pressure and probing for openings.
Guatemala’s persistence paid off in the 80th minute when 18-year-old rising star Olger Escobar, born in Lynn, Massachusetts but representing Guatemala, scored his second goal of the tournament. After an incisive assist from Arquímides Ordóñez, Escobar cut inside the box and calmly placed a shot between US goalkeeper Matt Freese and the far post, narrowing the deficit to 2-1 and reigniting hopes for a comeback.
The closing stages saw Guatemala pushing hard for an equalizer, but the US defense, marshaled by captain Tim Ream and supported by Chris Richards and Alex Freeman, held firm. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made crucial saves, including a vital deflection of a late shot from José Morales during stoppage time, preserving the narrow lead.
Throughout the match, both teams made tactical substitutions to maintain intensity and respond to the flow of the game. The United States brought on Walker Zimmerman, Damion Downs, Jack McGlynn, John Tolkin, and Brenden Aaronson, while Guatemala introduced Arquímides Ordóñez, Darwin Lom, Olger Escobar, Óscar Castellanos, and Jonathan Franco. These changes reflected the coaches’ strategies to balance defense and attack as the contest intensified.
The USMNT’s victory is a significant milestone in the ongoing project led by Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino. Luna’s performance has been emblematic of this transformation. Having played eight matches for the United States in 2025—including Concacaf Nations League, friendlies, and the Gold Cup—Luna has amassed three goals and five assists, becoming a vital offensive weapon. His courage was notably evident earlier this year when, despite suffering a broken nose in a friendly against Costa Rica, he continued playing and provided a key assist, earning Pochettino’s admiration.
Diego Luna’s journey from a promising MLS talent with Real Salt Lake to a pivotal figure for the USMNT has been swift and impressive. His ability to score crucial goals in high-pressure moments, such as the semifinal brace against Guatemala, positions him as a potential cornerstone for the United States as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026, set to begin in less than a year. Pochettino’s faith in Luna reflects a broader strategy of integrating dynamic young players alongside established stars.
Guatemala’s performance, despite the loss, was historic and commendable. This was their first semifinal appearance in the Gold Cup since 1996, marking a resurgence under coach Luis Fernando Tena. The team’s resilience and the emergence of talents like Olger Escobar and Arquímides Ordóñez signal a promising future for Guatemalan soccer on the international stage.
The USMNT now awaits the winner of the other semifinal between Mexico and Honduras, scheduled to take place later. Mexico, the defending champion with nine Gold Cup titles, remains the United States’ chief rival in the region, having defeated the US in all five of their previous Gold Cup final encounters. The upcoming final, set for Sunday, July 6, 2025, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
As the United States looks ahead to the final and the World Cup next year, the emergence of players like Diego Luna provides hope and excitement for fans hungry for continental and global success. Meanwhile, Guatemala’s spirited run has galvanized their supporters and demonstrated that they can compete with the region’s best.
In the end, the semifinal was a showcase of talent, heart, and the unyielding spirit of competition that defines the Gold Cup. With Diego Luna’s star shining brightly and the USMNT poised for another shot at glory, the stage is set for a memorable final in Houston.
