U.S. advances in Gold Cup with grit: Key for the 2026 World Cup

In an exciting quarter-final match of the Concacaf Gold Cup, the United States men’s national soccer team demonstrated their composure by overcoming Costa Rica in a penalty shootout, with a final score of 4-3 after a 2-2 draw in extra time. The American team, known for its resilience, will face Guatemala in the semi-finals of the tournament. The match was a whirlwind of emotions, with unexpected twists that kept the fans on the edge of their seats. The players went from heroes to villains in a matter of minutes, demonstrating the intensity characteristic of the Concacaf clashes.

Max Arfsten, for example, experienced a rollercoaster of emotions: he conceded a penalty, assisted in the equalizing goal, and scored his first international goal, but was also outplayed in the play of Costa Rica’s second goal. Malik Tillman, for his part, missed a penalty in the first half, but then assisted in Arfsten’s goal and converted his shot in the penalty shootout, despite receiving constant fouls.

Despite the adversity, the American team maintained its strategy, with Diego Luna standing out in his creative role and the midfield formed by Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, and Luca de la Torre showing great potential. These performances were key to achieving advancement to the next phase.

I think we showed great character, great character. We missed a penalty, but the team kept going, believing in our way of playing.

Mauricio Pochettino, coach of the United States

Goalkeeper Matt Freese became the hero of the match, shining in the penalty shootout. Freese, who conducted an exhaustive study on penalties during his college days, demonstrated his preparation by stopping several key shots.

I could rely on that kind of stuff, deal with a lot of statistics and read the game and the players’ hips, that was huge.

Matt Freese, goalkeeper for the United States

Freese saved Juan Vargas’s first attempt and then stopped Francisco Calvo’s shot. After his first save, Freese repeated to himself: “I want another one, I want another one.” Mental concentration was crucial. Damion Downs scored the decisive penalty, securing the victory for the United States.

I don’t know if I’m sure of winning, I think we have to go step by step. I am very grateful to have been able to help my team win today.

Matt Freese, goalkeeper of the United States

The experience gained in this tournament is invaluable for this young team. Participation in the Gold Cup is giving the players the opportunity to grow and develop the resilience needed for the future of American soccer. Tyler Adams highlighted the importance of overcoming challenges in critical moments. Arfsten, for his part, emphasized the need to overcome the ups and downs of football and leave his mark on the game.

The match also revealed important lessons on how to secure victory. The United States dominated after Arfsten’s goal, but failed to secure the third goal, allowing Costa Rica to regain ground. Adams emphasized the importance of “killing” the matches and not giving opportunities to the rivals. Guatemala, their next rival, has shown their ability to resurge in difficult matches, so the United States must be alert. The experience of the team leaders, like Tim Ream, will be crucial to guide the team in critical moments. Despite the challenges, this team is discovering its identity and learning to overcome adversity.