Diego Luna scored twice to lead the United States past Guatemala 2-1 in St. Louis on Wednesday, securing a spot in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final. The Americans will face the winner of the other semi-final between Mexico and Honduras in Sunday’s final in Houston.
Luna, the 21-year-old Real Salt Lake winger, made an early impact by capitalizing on a rebound from a Luca de la Torre shot in the 4th minute. He followed up with a dazzling solo effort in the 15th, doubling the USA’s lead and showcasing the attacking flair that has earned him widespread attention.
Guatemala responded with energy and nearly pulled a goal back through Rubio Rubin, whose efforts were denied first by goalkeeper Matt Freese and later by the offside flag. The Central Americans continued to push, backed by a vocal travelling crowd.
Before halftime, Sebastian Berhalter nearly extended the USA’s lead with a deflected free-kick that forced a strong save from Guatemalan keeper Kenderson Navarro.
After the break, Guatemala increased the pressure, and it paid off in the 80th minute when Arquimides Ordonez weaved into the box and found Olger Escobar. The 18-year-old, born in Boston, slotted home to make it 2-1, setting up a tense finish.
Jose Morales nearly equalized in stoppage time with a low drive from the edge of the area, but Freese was sharp again, diving to push it wide and preserve the win.
Luna’s breakout performance not only propelled the USA into the final but also strengthened his case for inclusion in the 2026 World Cup squad, even with stars like Christian Pulisic expected to return.
“Every single one of these players think about it the same way I do—that this is the number one dream we had as a kid and we’re going to fight for as many chances as we can to wear this shirt,” Luna said after the match.
Berhalter praised his teammate’s performance: “He does stuff like that, scoring two goals in a semi-final—that’s why he’s him. He’s one of the best players in MLS and one of the best players here.
