Background on the Teams and Key Players
In the final quarterfinal match of the CONCACAF Gold Cup, Costa Rica and the United States played to a 2-2 draw in regular time. The United States, coached by Mauricio Pochettino, advanced to the semifinals after a penalty shootout victory, 4-3. The U.S. will now face Guatemala, coached by Luis Fernando Tena, in the next round. Meanwhile, Costa Rica will aim to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under the guidance of their coach, ‘Piojo’ Herrera.
Key Players and Their Impact
Costa Rica’s Alonso Martínez and Francisco Calvo Quesada had opportunities to secure a win during the penalty shootout but failed to convert their kicks. On the other hand, Matthew Freese, who has only played in the MLS with New York City FC, showcased his skills by blocking two crucial penalties for Costa Rica. His performance has bolstered his case for being a starting goalkeeper in the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Game Summary
- Costa Rica took the lead with an early penalty by Francisco Calvo at the 12th minute.
- Diego Luna and Max Arfsten scored their first goals for the national team, giving Costa Rica a 2-1 lead.
- Alonso Martínez equalized the match 2-2 in the 71st minute, forcing a dramatic penalty shootout.
- The United States won the shootout 4-3, advancing to the semifinals against Guatemala.
Historical Context and Relevance
The United States has advanced in each of their last 19 knockout stage matches in the Gold Cup since 2005, demonstrating their dominance in the competition. Their current streak of 15 matches without a loss (since 2019) is the longest since a run of 18 matches between 2003 and 2009. Costa Rica has the highest conversion rate of penalties in this Gold Cup 2025, with a 57% success rate (4 out of 7), and they have scored the most penalty goals in this competition.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the key players mentioned in the article? Matthew Freese (United States), Alonso Martínez and Francisco Calvo Quesada (Costa Rica), and Keylor Navas (Costa Rica).
- What is the significance of the penalty shootout victory for the United States? The win advances the U.S. to the Gold Cup semifinals, where they will face Guatemala. It also strengthens Matthew Freese’s case for being a starting goalkeeper in the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
- What are some notable statistics from the match? The U.S. had a 71% possession rate in the first half, converted their second goal at 46:27 in the second half, and Keylor Navas made 13 saves in this edition of the Gold Cup.
