Three Penalty Shootout Save From Freese Lifts the US Past Costa Rica
The United States Men's National Team survived a dramatic penalty shootout against Costa Rica on Sunday, advancing to the Gold Cup semifinals with a 4-3 victory on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
Goalkeeper Matt Freese emerged as the decisive figure, making three crucial saves in the shootout to deny Juan Pablo Vargas, Francisco Calvo, and Andy Rojas. His heroics allowed 20-year-old striker Damion Downs to convert the winning penalty in the sixth round, sending the Americans through to face Guatemala in the semifinals.
The match began poorly for the United States when Max Arfsten conceded a penalty that Francisco Calvo converted in the 12th minute. The Americans struggled to find their equalizer despite earning a penalty of their own, with Malik Tillman's 37th-minute spot kick striking the post. However, Diego Luna leveled the score just before halftime with a deflected effort that found the net.
Arfsten redeemed himself early in the second half, scoring his first international goal in the 47th minute to put the Americans ahead 2-1. The lead proved short-lived as Costa Rica's Alonso Martinez equalized in the 71st minute, setting up the penalty drama that would follow.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino praised his team's character and emphasized the valuable experience gained from navigating such a high-pressure situation. "I think it's good for this group of players to have this type of experience," Pochettino said, highlighting the importance of building tournament resilience.
The victory extends the USMNT's remarkable Gold Cup record, reaching the semifinals for the 17th time in 18 tournaments and maintaining their streak of 13 consecutive semifinal appearances since 2000. Despite missing key players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, Pochettino's alternate roster has shown improved cohesion and mental fortitude compared to their struggles earlier this year.
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