The U.S. Men’s National Team reached its first CONCACAF Gold Cup final since 2021 after a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Guatemala in Wednesday’s semifinal at St. Louis’s T-Mobile Center.
Midfielder Diego Luna struck twice in the opening 15 minutes to give the United States an early advantage. Luna’s first, scored with his left foot in the fourth minute, was followed by a powerful right-footed finish in the 15th minute—marking his third goal in just two matches this tournament .
Despite the fast start, Guatemala responded in the 80th minute when 18-year-old Olger Escobar—born in Lynn, Massachusetts—slid a chip into the goal following a defensive lapse. That goal, his second of the tournament, narrowed the margin to 2–1.
Guatemala outshot the U.S. 20–12 but could not find an equalizer. A late effort by José Morales in stoppage time was denied by American goalkeeper Matthew Freese, sealing the win for the home side.
The win sets up a Gold Cup final showdown with Mexico on Sunday in Houston—the U.S. squad’s final competitive match before next summer’s World Cup. With seven titles apiece, the teams will battle for regional bragging rights.
With input from AP News.
