The usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches have a storied history of competitive matches that have thrilled soccer fans across North and Central America. These encounters, often marked by intensity and drama, showcase the growth of soccer in the CONCACAF region. Whether in World Cup qualifiers, CONCACAF Gold Cup tournaments, or friendly matches, the clashes between the USMNT and Guatemala are always a spectacle. In this article, we’ll dive into the history, key moments, standout players, and what makes this rivalry so compelling, all while keeping things clear and engaging for readers of all ages.
A Brief History of the usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry
The usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches have faced off 27 times in their history, with the U.S. holding a dominant record of 16 wins, 5 losses, and 6 draws. Their encounters date back to the 1960s, with most matches occurring in competitive settings like World Cup qualifiers and the CONCACAF Gold Cup. The rivalry is fueled by Guatemala’s underdog spirit and the USMNT’s quest to assert dominance in the region.
Guatemala, known as “Los Chapines,” has often been a challenging opponent despite their lower FIFA ranking (currently 106th as of 2025). Their resilience and ability to pull off upsets, like their 2025 Gold Cup run, make them a team the USMNT can never underestimate. The U.S., under coaches like Mauricio Pochettino, has used these matches to test young talent and build momentum for bigger tournaments like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Key Matches Between usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches
Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable matches between these two teams, highlighting the moments that have defined their rivalry.
1. 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup Semifinal: A Diego Luna Masterclass
One of the most recent and thrilling encounters came on July 2, 2025, during the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri. The USMNT defeated Guatemala 2-1 in a match that showcased the emergence of young star Diego Luna. The Real Salt Lake midfielder scored a brace in the first 15 minutes, setting the tone for a physical and intense battle.
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First Goal (4th minute): Luna capitalized on a rebound from Luca de la Torre’s shot, calmly slotting the ball past Guatemala’s goalkeeper Kénderson Navarro.
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Second Goal (15th minute): Malik Tillman delivered a precise pass to Luna, who dribbled past defenders and unleashed a powerful right-footed strike into the lower left corner.
Guatemala fought back late with a goal from Olger Escobar in the 80th minute, assisted by Arquímides Ordóñez. The match grew tense when José Morales nearly equalized in stoppage time, but USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese made a crucial save to secure the victory. This win propelled the U.S. to their 13th Gold Cup final, where they faced Mexico. The game was a testament to Guatemala’s grit and the USMNT’s ability to hold firm under pressure.
2. 2016 World Cup Qualifier: USMNT’s 4-0 Rout
On March 29, 2016, in Columbus, Ohio, the USMNT delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Guatemala in a World Cup qualifying match. This game marked the last meeting before the 2025 Gold Cup semifinal and highlighted the U.S.’s dominance at the time. Goals from Clint Dempsey, Graham Zusi, Jozy Altidore, and Geoff Cameron showcased the USMNT’s attacking prowess. Guatemala struggled to create chances, and the U.S. defense, led by Tim Ream, kept a clean sheet.
This match was a turning point for Guatemala, as it led to a coaching change and a shift toward rebuilding their squad with younger players. For the USMNT, it was a confidence booster as they marched toward the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.
3. 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup: A Narrow 1-0 Victory
In the 2007 Gold Cup group stage, the USMNT edged Guatemala 1-0 in a tightly contested match. The lone goal came from a set piece, with the U.S. capitalizing on their physicality and organization. This game was significant because it showed Guatemala’s ability to compete with the U.S. on a big stage, even if they couldn’t find the back of the net. The match set the tone for Guatemala’s growing reputation as a team capable of challenging CONCACAF’s giants.
4. 1989 World Cup Qualifier: Guatemala’s Rare Triumph
One of Guatemala’s few victories over the USMNT came in 1989 during a World Cup qualifying match. Guatemala won 1-0 in a hard-fought battle, stunning the U.S. and proving they could hold their own against stronger opponents. This match remains a point of pride for Guatemalan fans and a reminder of their potential to upset the odds.
Standout Players in the usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry
USMNT Stars
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Diego Luna: The 21-year-old midfielder stole the show in the 2025 Gold Cup semifinal, earning Man of the Match honors for his brace and dynamic play. His ability to dribble, create chances, and finish makes him a rising star for the USMNT.
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Malik Tillman: With three goals and an assist in the 2025 Gold Cup, Tillman’s creativity and vision were crucial in the U.S.’s victory over Guatemala. His move to Bayer Leverkusen has only boosted his profile.
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Tim Ream: A veteran presence, Ream captained the USMNT in the 2025 semifinal, playing in his hometown of St. Louis. His experience and leadership have been vital in high-stakes matches against Guatemala.
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Matt Freese: The New York City FC goalkeeper made critical saves in the 2025 semifinal, including a career-high four saves, to keep Guatemala at bay.
Guatemala’s Key Players
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Rubio Rubín: A former USMNT youth international, Rubín switched allegiance to Guatemala in 2022 and has become a leader for Los Chapines. His goal-scoring ability and experience in MLS make him a constant threat.
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Olger Escobar: The young attacker scored Guatemala’s lone goal in the 2025 Gold Cup semifinal, showcasing his potential as a future star.
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Aaron Herrera: Another former U.S. youth international, Herrera has been a defensive rock for Guatemala, bringing MLS experience from D.C. United.
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Kénderson Navarro: Despite conceding two goals in the 2025 semifinal, Navarro’s performance in goal kept Guatemala in the game, especially during their upset over Canada in the quarterfinals.
Why This usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry Matters
The usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches are more than just games; they’re a clash of styles, histories, and aspirations. The U.S. represents a growing soccer powerhouse with a deep talent pool and high expectations, especially as co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup. Guatemala, on the other hand, embodies the underdog spirit, fighting to make their mark in a region dominated by the U.S., Mexico, and Costa Rica.
For fans, these matches are a chance to see emerging talents like Diego Luna and Olger Escobar shine, while veterans like Tim Ream and Rubio Rubín add experience and drama. The physicality of the games, often marked by numerous fouls and yellow cards (30 fouls and six yellows in the 2025 semifinal), keeps spectators on the edge of their seats.
Recent Trends and Statistics
Here are some key stats that highlight the rivalry’s dynamics:
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Head-to-Head Record: USMNT leads 16W-5L-6D all-time, with a 4W-0L-1D record in Gold Cup matches.
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Goals Scored: The U.S. has outscored Guatemala in recent encounters, with notable high-scoring games like the 4-0 win in 2016.
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Recent Form: In 2025, the USMNT topped Group D with three wins before beating Costa Rica in a penalty shootout. Guatemala upset Canada and Jamaica to reach the Gold Cup semifinal, defying their FIFA ranking.
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Key Moment: Diego Luna’s brace in 2025 was the fastest double in a Gold Cup semifinal for the USMNT, showcasing their attacking intent.
What to Expect in Future Matches
As both teams prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, their rivalry is set to intensify. The USMNT, under Pochettino, is building a squad that blends youth and experience, with players like Luna, Tillman, and Patrick Agyemang expected to lead the charge. Guatemala, meanwhile, is focused on qualifying for their first-ever World Cup, relying on a core of young players and MLS veterans.
Future matches will likely be physical, with Guatemala’s high-pressing style challenging the USMNT’s possession-based approach. The U.S. will aim to maintain their dominance, while Guatemala will look to replicate their upset potential from the 2025 Gold Cup. Fans can expect more thrilling moments, whether in St. Louis, Guatemala City, or neutral venues.
How to Watch usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches
For fans eager to catch the next usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches, here’s how to stay in the loop:
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TV and Streaming: Matches are typically broadcast on FS1, FOX Sports, or ESPN, with streaming available on platforms like FOXSports.com, ESPN+, and the U.S. Soccer app.
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Live Updates: Follow the U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) and FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) on social media for real-time highlights and updates.
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Tickets: Check ussoccer.com for ticket information for home games, like the 2025 Gold Cup semifinal at Energizer Park.
Why Fans Love This Matchup
For soccer fans of all ages, usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches offer a mix of excitement, unpredictability, and passion. Whether it’s a young fan cheering for Diego Luna’s dazzling goals or a seasoned supporter reminiscing about Clint Dempsey’s heroics, there’s something for everyone. The underdog story of Guatemala, combined with the USMNT’s quest for regional dominance, makes every game a must-watch.
The 2025 Gold Cup semifinal, for example, drew a sellout crowd of 22,423 in St. Louis, proving the growing popularity of soccer in the U.S. and the appeal of this rivalry. Kids can enjoy the fast-paced action, while adults appreciate the tactical battles and historical context.
Conclusion: A usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry That Keeps Growing
The usmnt vs guatemala national football team matches rivalry is a testament to the evolving landscape of CONCACAF soccer. From historic wins to nail-biting finishes, these matches capture the heart of the sport. As both teams gear up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, fans can look forward to more unforgettable moments. Whether you’re rooting for the Stars and Stripes or cheering for Los Chapines, one thing is certain: this matchup never disappoints.
