Empire State Review Contributor 
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) clinched a spot in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup final with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Guatemala on July 2 at Energizer Park in St. Louis. A first-half brace from 21-year-old midfielder Diego Luna proved decisive, as the Americans withstood a spirited second-half surge from their Central American opponents.
Luna opened the scoring in the fourth minute, pouncing on a rebound after a shot by Luca de la Torre was parried by Guatemalan goalkeeper Kenderson Navarro. The Real Salt Lake midfielder doubled the lead in the 15th minute, weaving through defenders before firing a low shot into the corner. Luna’s performance marked his second consecutive game with a goal, solidifying his status as a rising star for the national team .
Despite the early deficit, Guatemala, appearing in their first Gold Cup semifinal since 1996, rallied in the second half. The team applied consistent pressure, culminating in an 80th-minute goal by 18-year-old Olger Escobar, who slid a shot past U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese. The U.S. defense held firm in the closing minutes, securing the win and a place in the final .
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino praised both teams’ efforts, highlighting the emotional intensity of the match. He commended the Guatemalan fans, whose passionate support created a vibrant atmosphere that felt like an away game for the U.S. “It was like [playing] in Guatemala,” Pochettino remarked, emphasizing the importance of such fervor in building a strong soccer culture .
Guatemala’s head coach, Luis Fernando Tena, expressed pride in his team’s performance, noting their resilience after conceding two early goals. He lauded the players’ character and determination, acknowledging the narrow margin of defeat and the team’s overall growth during the tournament .
The U.S. victory sets up a highly anticipated final against defending champions Mexico, who advanced after a 1-0 win over Honduras. The championship match is scheduled for July 6 at NRG Stadium in Houston, marking the first time the venue hosts a Gold Cup final. Both teams enter the final undefeated in the tournament, with the U.S. seeking their eighth Gold Cup title and Mexico aiming for their tenth .
As the USMNT prepares for the final, Luna’s emergence as a key contributor adds a new dimension to the team’s attack. His creativity and composure under pressure have been instrumental in the team’s success, offering a promising glimpse into the future of American soccer.
