The United States men’s national soccer team has secured a berth in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup final with a 2-1 semifinal win over Guatemala on July 3 at Energizer Park in St. Louis. The match’s early momentum was set by 21-year-old midfielder Diego Luna, who struck twice in the opening 15 minutes to put the Americans ahead. With the win, the U.S. advances to a blockbuster final against Mexico, set for Sunday, July 6, at NRG Stadium in Houston.
Luna wasted no time making an impact, scoring in the fourth minute after reacting quickest to a rebound from a Luca de la Torre effort. Eleven minutes later, he found the back of the net again, finishing low from inside the box after a smooth setup by Malik Tillman. Despite a late goal by Guatemala’s Olger Escobar in the 80th minute, U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese delivered several key saves to maintain the narrow lead and ensure the Americans’ progression.
Under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the U.S. squad has demonstrated greater tactical discipline and attacking cohesion throughout the tournament. Following the win, Pochettino acknowledged the electric atmosphere generated by Guatemalan fans and emphasized the importance of passionate support in building soccer culture across the region.
This upcoming final will mark the eighth time the U.S. and Mexico have met in a Gold Cup championship match. Historically, Mexico holds the upper hand with five wins in such encounters, compared to the United States’ two. Both teams enter the final undefeated, intensifying the stakes of an already fierce rivalry.
The championship clash is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on FOX, Univision, and TUDN. Tickets for the event at Houston’s NRG Stadium start at $154.35, reflecting high demand for what is expected to be one of the most-watched matches of the tournament.
As the U.S. chases its eighth Gold Cup title, all eyes will be on Luna and the rest of the squad to see if they can deliver against their most storied regional rival.
