By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: Major League Soccer
On Wednesday, the United States men’s soccer team defeated Guatemala 2-1 at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri, to advance to the Gold Cup Finals.
The first 25 minutes of the game cost Guatemala the game. The United States set the tone early, stuck together, and gained all the momentum. Diego Luna led the United States by scoring two goals in the first 15 minutes.
“I think it’s the grit,” said Luna after the game. “It’s the determination we’ve been locking to be honest with you. It’s fighting to the end. Every ball, every moment, the game’s about moments, and I think this is where we showcased it.”
Luna was the difference maker. He played with so much confidence and swagger throughout the tournament. Luna said and did the right things. His leadership has rubbed off on his teammates in a positive way.
It was 90 minutes of battle, and Luna and the United States had to scratch and claw for every possession. It’s not easy, but they are getting closer to completing their ultimate goal.
Guatemala reached the semifinals for the first time in 29 years. The team put up a good fight, but only one team can advance, and that’s Team USA.
The United States will play against Mexico on Sunday in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup Final at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Nearly 60,000 fans have purchased tickets for the Gold Cup Final.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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