USMNT Advances to Gold Cup Final in Houston

Diego Luna scored twice in the opening 15 minutes to lead the United States to a 2-1 victory over Guatemala in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal, securing a place in the final for the first time since 2021. Luna, with three goals in his last two games, strengthened his case for a prominent role on the U.S. roster ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Despite being outshot in the first half and conceding a late goal from Olger Escobar in the 80th minute, the U.S. held on thanks to crucial saves by goalkeeper Matt Freese. The Americans will face either Mexico or Honduras in Sunday’s final in Houston, aiming for their eighth Gold Cup title. For Guatemala, this was just their second trip to the semifinals and their first in 29 years as they continue to seek their maiden final appearance. The match highlighted both Luna's emergence and the growing competitiveness of the Guatemalan team.