The 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup semi-final have officially concluded following an intense round of quarter-final clashes. The final four teams advancing are the host nation, the United States, defending champions Mexico, and two surprising underdogs, Guatemala and Honduras, who staged unexpected upsets to reach the semi-final. Their inclusion has added new drama and excitement to this year’s tournament.
USA Survive Penalty Shootout Against Costa Rica
The United States secured their place in the final four after a dramatic quarter-final against Costa Rica. The match turned into a thrilling contest, with Costa Rica taking the lead twice during regulation time. However, the U.S. side showed remarkable resilience, with goals from young stars Diaz Luna and Max Avsten helping them come from behind and force a 2-2 draw.
The match was ultimately decided in a penalty shootout, where American goalkeeper Matt Fraser delivered a heroic performance by saving three penalties. His crucial saves led the United States to a 4-3 shootout victory and into the semi-final. This result has reaffirmed the team’s status as one of the top contenders for the championship.
Guatemala Defeats Canada in Historic Breakthrough
In what has been the biggest surprise of the tournament so far, Guatemala defeated Canada in a tense penalty shootout, winning 6-5 to reach the Gold Cup semi-final for the first time in 29 years. This result marks Guatemala’s best achievement in the competition since 1996.
Head coach Luis Fernando Tena praised the team’s performance, calling it a “historic victory” and a reflection of the players’ discipline, belief, and growth on the international stage. Their unexpected success has made them the standout underdog of this tournament.
Looking ahead to the semi-final, Guatemala will face a strong U.S. team. Historically, the United States has had the upper hand in head-to-head encounters, particularly due to their superior physicality and aerial strength. Despite the odds, Guatemala’s momentum and team unity could pose a challenge.
Honduras to Face Mighty Mexico
In the other semi–final, Mexico will take on Honduras. Mexico, the reigning champions, have once again demonstrated their dominance in the region and remain one of the favourites to win the tournament. Historically, Mexico has a strong record against Honduras, with six wins, one draw, and three losses in past matchups. Notably, they defeated Honduras twice in the previous year’s CONCACAF Nations League, underscoring their superiority.
Honduras, while considered the weaker side, has shown significant improvement in recent matches and managed to secure a place in the final four. However, they will face a daunting task against Mexico, whose experience, squad depth, and recent form give them a clear edge. According to Sportsmole predictions, Mexico is expected to win the semi-final comfortably with a 3-0 scoreline.
Anticipating the Final in Houston
The Gold Cup Final is scheduled for July 6 at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Should both the United States and Mexico win their respective semi-final, fans can look forward to a classic North American rivalry in the final. This clash has defined regional football for decades.
However, the possibility of further surprises remains. If Guatemala can continue their dream run or if Honduras pulls off a shock victory, it would mark one of the most dramatic tournament outcomes in Gold Cup history. Either scenario would bring a fresh and historic element to the final, showcasing the growing competitiveness within the CONCACAF region.
As the tournament heads toward its climax, anticipation is building across North and Central America, with fans eager to see who will lift the Gold Cup trophy in 2025.
