Diego Luna Brace Sends USMNT to 2025 Gold Cup Final

The United States men's national team have booked their place in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup final following a gritty 2–1 win over Guatemala in St. Louis on Wednesday night. Two early goals from Diego Luna proved decisive, as the Americans advanced to their 13th Gold Cup final under the leadership of head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Luna, who has quickly become one of the standout performers of the tournament, scored in the 7th and 15th minutes to give the U.S. an early cushion. His quick brace stunned the Guatemalan defense and showcased the type of attacking spark Pochettino has brought to the squad since his appointment. The 20-year-old has now scored four goals in the knockout stages, solidifying his case as one of the brightest young stars in CONCACAF.

Guatemala, ranked 106th in the world, made things interesting late in the match when Olger Escobar pulled one back in the 80th minute. The final 10 minutes saw waves of pressure from the Central Americans, but the U.S. defense held firm to secure the result and maintain their unbeaten record in the tournament.

The win sends the U.S. to the final at NRG Stadium in Houston on Sunday, July 6, where they will face the winner of Mexico vs. Honduras. With this win, the United States aim to lift their eighth Gold Cup title, reaffirming their dominance in the region.

Pochettino’s tactical flexibility and the emergence of young talent like Luna, Paxten Aaronson, and Kevin Paredes have given the USMNT a refreshed identity, balancing possession with aggressive attacking transitions. The defensive stability led by Miles Robinson and Matt Turner has also played a pivotal role, conceding just two goals en route to the final.

As the Gold Cup finale approaches, the momentum is clearly with the Americans. Their improved squad depth, tactical discipline, and standout individual performances have made them early favorites to claim the trophy.

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