In a gripping Gold Cup quarterfinal matchup at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) secured a hard-fought 4-3 victory in a penalty shootout against Costa Rica following a dramatic 2-2 draw in regulation time. The win propels the Americans into the semifinals of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, keeping alive their pursuit of an eighth continental title.
The match began with early adversity for the U.S. squad. In just the 12th minute, Costa Rica capitalized on a defensive lapse when Francisco Calvo converted a penalty kick, awarded after defender Max Arfsten committed a foul inside the box. It was a frustrating start for the U.S., but the team maintained composure and built momentum heading into halftime.
Their efforts paid off in the 43rd minute when Diego Luna’s shot deflected past the Costa Rican keeper, leveling the match at 1-1. The goal marked Luna’s first for the national team and offered a crucial morale boost heading into the break.
Just minutes after the restart, Arfsten made amends for his earlier error by scoring the go-ahead goal in the 47th minute. The defender, showing resilience and poise, slotted the ball home to give the United States a 2-1 lead. However, Costa Rica refused to fold. In the 71st minute, Alonso Martínez capitalized on a rebound opportunity to equalize, sending the match into extra time.
Despite chances for both sides, neither team could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes, pushing the outcome to a penalty shootout. That’s when U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese stepped into the spotlight. Freese delivered a standout performance, saving three of Costa Rica’s attempts and anchoring the U.S. defense under pressure.
On the offensive end, the U.S. remained composed from the spot, with Damion Downs sealing the victory by converting the final penalty. The moment sparked celebration among players and fans alike, as the team continues to build momentum in the tournament.
Following the match, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino praised his squad’s determination and grit. “La voluntad no es negociable; el talento después aparecerá,” Pochettino said, emphasizing that willpower is foundational to success—talent follows in its wake.
The win sets up a semifinal clash against Guatemala on July 2 in St. Louis. Guatemala advanced to the final four after a surprising run that included a win over Jamaica in the quarterfinals. The upcoming match will test the depth and resolve of the U.S. side, especially amid a growing list of injuries.
So far, the USMNT has impressed in the tournament, winning all three of their group stage matches and demonstrating tactical flexibility and youth development under Pochettino’s leadership. Several emerging players, including Luna and Arfsten, have stepped into significant roles, showcasing the national team’s growing pool of talent ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As the tournament advances, the pressure will intensify, but the U.S. team appears well-equipped to handle it. Freese’s performance, in particular, will be remembered as a defining moment of this Gold Cup run.
The semifinals promise to deliver more high-stakes action as the USMNT eyes a return to the Gold Cup final. With resilience and renewed confidence, the squad continues to inspire fans and build toward future international success.