Guatemala Ready for Semifinal

After a Dramatic Shootout, Guatemala Advances at the Gold Cup

Guatemala has emerged as the Gold Cup's surprise semifinalist, reaching the final four for the first time since 1996, thanks to a combination of passionate fan support and tactical resilience under manager Luis Fernando Tena.

The Central American nation, ranked 106th by FIFA, opened their campaign with a statement victory over Jamaica in Los Angeles, where nearly 17,000 Guatemalan supporters created an electric atmosphere at Dignity Health Sports Park. Oscar Santis provided the decisive moment in that 1-0 triumph, starting and finishing a move in the 32nd minute to secure Guatemala's first victory over Jamaica since 2012.

Their path through Group C proved challenging, as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Panama in Austin before bouncing back with a crucial 3-2 victory over Guadeloupe in Houston. José Pinto and Olger Escobar gave Guatemala a two-goal cushion in that final group match, with Rubio Rubin adding insurance after Guadeloupe had pulled within one goal.

The quarterfinal against Canada represented Guatemala's biggest test and greatest triumph. Despite going behind to Jonathan David's penalty and facing a Canada side that had entered as tournament favorites, Los Chapines showed remarkable character. Playing against ten men after Jacob Shaffelburg's red card, they found their equalizer through Rubin's powerful header from an Oscar Santis cross in the 69th minute.

The penalty shootout showcased Guatemala's mental fortitude, with José Morales converting the decisive spot kick after Canada's Luc de Fougerolles struck the crossbar. Goalkeeper Kenderson Navarro proved crucial throughout, making key saves to keep his team's dreams alive.

Guatemala's success stems from strong tactical organization and the contributions of dual-national players like Rubin, a former U.S. international who switched allegiances in 2022. Their large diaspora community, particularly in Los Angeles, has provided unwavering support throughout their historic run. Now they face the ultimate test against the United States, carrying the hopes of a nation seeking its first World Cup appearance since their youth teams' recent successes.