USA and Guatemala are set to collide in the semifinals of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, promising an electrifying showdown. Both squads enter the match following grueling quarterfinals that were decided by penalty kicks. While Luis Tena’s Guatemalan team is renowned for its defensive prowess, the USMNT have made their mark with offensive firepower. This semifinal promises to be a fascinating clash of contrasting styles.
[Watch USA vs Guatemala live for free in the USA on Fubo]
Despite being early favorites, the USMNT have faced several challenges throughout the tournament. Although they possess the talent to dominate, they have struggled to close out matches decisively. Costa Rica came within a single penalty kick of sending them home early. Critics have pointed fingers at head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s lack of a coherent game plan, casting doubts on the position of one of the competition’s historically successful teams in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Guatemala have pulled off impressive victories over formidable opponents like Jamaica and Canada, achieving success without a roster filled with superstars. Their strength lies in a robust defense, one of the tournament’s most consistent. Under the guidance of coach Luis Tena, the team has developed a distinctive playing identity, propelling their progress both in this tournament and in the World Cup Qualifiers.
USA lineup vs Guatemala
Despite doubts among many fans, the USA step into the game as the favorite team. However, midfielder Johnny Cardoso will miss the match against Guatemala after experiencing discomfort in yesterday’s training session. His absence brings Luca de la Torre back into the starting lineup.
Tim Ream #13 of United States passes the ball against Andy Rojas #7 of Costa Rica in the first half of a game at Inter&Co Stadium on January 22, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.
Looking ahead to the semifinals, head coach Pochettino chose this XI to faceGuatemala: Matt Freese; Alex Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Max Arfsten; Tyler Adams, Luca de la Torre; Diego Luna, Malik Tillman, Sebastian Berhalter; Patrick Agyemang.
see also
USMNT schedule at the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup: Key dates, how to watch, results and more
Guatemala lineup vs USA
Though they will not start as favorites, Guatemala have shown they can compete against any Concacaf national team. Moreover, they will face the USMNT without injuries, which means they will feature a lineup similar to the one that achieved the remarkable victory over Canada.
For this reason, head coach Luis Tena will field the following team against USA: Kenderson Navarro; Aaron Herrera, Jose Pinto, Nicolas Samayoa, Jose Morales; Stheven Robles, Jose Rosales, Rudy Muñoz; Pedro Altan, Rubio Rubin, Oscar Santiz.
