Diego Luna scored two goals in the opening 15 minutes as the United States defeated Guatemala 2-1 on Wednesday night, advancing to their first Concacaf Gold Cup final since 2021. Guatemala had a 1.67 to 1.38 xG edge over the USMNT despite being heavy underdogs.
Luna struck with his left foot in the fourth minute before adding a right-footed finish in the 15th minute for his third goal in two tournament matches. The victory sets up a final against either defending champion Mexico or Honduras on Sunday in Houston.
Guatemala Fights Back Late
Olger Escobar, an 18-year-old born Massachusetts, pulled one back for Guatemala in the 80th minute. The teenager cut inside and slid his shot between goalkeeper Matt Freese and the far post for his second tournament goal.
Freese made a crucial save in stoppage time, parrying Jose Morales\' effort toward the far post. The save preserved the Americans\' narrow advantage and secured their place in the championship match.
Luna\'s Clinical Finishing Proves Decisive
Luna\'s opening goal came after Alex Freeman\'s cross found Malik Tillman, who touched the ball to Luca de la Torre. Guatemalan goalkeeper Kenderson Navarro spilled de la Torre\'s shot, allowing Luna to quickly switch feet and finish over the keeper\'s outstretched hand.
The second goal showcased Luna\'s individual brilliance as he received a cross-field pass from Tillman 40 yards out. Luna dribbled past defender José Carlos Pinto with a stepover before slotting home from the penalty area edge.
USMNT Seeks Eighth Gold Cup Title
The 16th-ranked Americans led by Mauricio Pochettino and playing without most of their top players advanced to their 13th Gold Cup final, though all five previous final defeats came against Mexico. This marks their final competitive match before the 2026 World Cup opener next June.
Guatemala, ranked 106th globally, outshot the United States 13-1 in the final 30 minutes of the first half but couldn\'t find an equalizer. The Central American nation has never reached a Gold Cup final despite their spirited performance.