The U.S. men’s national soccer team is just one victory away from reaching the Gold Cup final, where they will face either Mexico or Honduras. In an unexpected twist, they will be up against Guatemala instead of Canada in this semi-final match. This reflects the competitive nature of CONCACAF, where any team can emerge victorious on a given day. The USMNT has faced challenges in the past and had to rely on goalkeeper Matt Freeze’s three penalty saves to avoid elimination against Costa Rica.
This upcoming win could fuel the USMNT’s ambition, particularly after Mexico won the last Gold Cup. The players are determined to prove their worth as they look towards the 2026 World Cup.
Match Details: USMNT vs Guatemala
- Date: Wednesday, July 2nd
- Time: 7 PM
- Location: Energizer Park, St. Louis, Missouri
- TV: FS1 | Live Stream: fubo (with a free trial)
- Odds: Draw USMNT -400; Guatemala +1000
Previous Encounters
The two teams haven’t faced off since 2016. Guatemala hasn’t scored against the USMNT since 2012, and the last match ended in a dominant 4-0 win for the U.S. Despite a shaky defense, USMNT needs to capitalize on early scoring opportunities to secure victory.
Projected USMNT Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Matt Freeze
- Defenders: John Tolkin, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Alex Freeman
- Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Luka de la Torre, Diego Luna
- Forwards: Malik Tillman, Jack McLinn, Patrick Aggieman
Players to Watch
Malik Tillman (PSV): Despite a lack of penalties in the last match against Costa Rica, Tillman’s stock has risen significantly during the tournament, contributing three goals and assists. He is well-positioned to secure a spot in the USMNT for the 2026 World Cup.
Key Storyline
Can USMNT Embrace Their Favorite Status? In their match against Costa Rica, the team faced difficulties due to defensive errors. While the outcome was positive, concerns linger, highlighting the need for improved performance under pressure. As competition intensifies, it’s crucial for USMNT to avoid self-sabotage.
Prediction
Luna sets the tone with an early goal, and the USMNT takes control from there, similar to their opening tournament match. Prediction: USMNT 5, Guatemala 0.
CBS Sports Coverage
To catch all the action, tune in to the CBS Sports Golazo Network, which offers various soccer shows and podcasts, keeping fans updated and engaged.
Fan Take: This match is pivotal for the USMNT as they aim to assert dominance in the region, showcasing their talent ahead of the World Cup. A strong performance could elevate the team’s confidence and solidify its position in international soccer.
