Dramatic Gold Cup Quarterfinal: USMNT Triumphs Over Costa Rica in Penalty Shootout

MINNEAPOLIS — The U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) experienced every emotion possible in their Gold Cup quarterfinal match against Costa Rica on Sunday, advancing to the semifinals after a heart-pounding 4-3 victory in a penalty shootout, following a thrilling 2-2 draw over 90 minutes.

Roller-Coaster First Half

The match kicked off with an unsettling moment for the USMNT, as they fell behind early due to a penalty awarded to Costa Rica in the 12th minute. Max Arfsten’s clumsy tackle led to Francisco Calvo’s successful conversion of the spot-kick, leaving the Americans scrambling. For the first half, the U.S. looked stagnant, managing only two shots—neither of which were on target—in the first thirty minutes of play.

However, the tide began to shift after Malik Tillman’s persistent efforts sparked a reaction from his teammates. Although his initial penalty effort was a miss, the U.S. got a lifeline shortly thereafter. Arfsten redeemed himself, orchestrating a move that led to Diego Luna’s deflected equalizer, bringing the score to 1-1.

With renewed energy, Arfsten played a pivotal role once again, setting up for a much-needed second goal, giving the USMNT a 2-1 lead right after halftime. The U.S. appeared to be in control, with thoughts of facing Guatemala in the semifinal looming large.

Second Half Drama

However, the match took another twist in the 71st minute when Costa Rica’s Carlos Mora broke through the U.S. defense. He managed to get a shot off against goalkeeper Matt Freese, only for it to rebound off him and land at Alonso Martínez’s feet, who did not hesitate to convert the opportunity. Suddenly, the game was back on level terms at 2-2.

Despite several intense moments, including Martínez hitting the post in the 85th minute, neither team could find the decisive winner in regulation time. The match was set for penalties, turning the tension dial up to eleven.

The Penalty Shootout

In the shootout, nerves ran high as players stepped to the spot. However, it was the bravery and skill of goalkeeper Matt Freese that stole the show. Freese made three monumental saves throughout the shootout. He began by diving low to his left, denying Francisco Calvo’s attempt, propelling the U.S. into an early lead.

USMNT players Tyler Adams and Malik Tillman—who had missed in regulation—successfully converted their penalties, while Sebastian Berhalter’s miss momentarily shifted the momentum back to Costa Rica.

As luck would have it, Freese was not done. He stood firm once more, this time saving a shot from Andy Rojas, putting the U.S. in a prime position. When substitute striker Damion Downs took his turn, he delivered a confident shot that not only found the back of the net but also ignited wild celebrations among the U.S. players and fans alike.

Freese’s Preparation Pays Off

Post-match, Freese expressed his readiness for the pressure of penalties, stating, “Penalties are my thing. [On] the plane ride over here to Minnesota, I was studying penalties. I’ve been studying them all week and I was ready for it if we needed it.” His dedication to preparation was evident, not only in the saves he made but in how he commanded the goal throughout the nerve-wracking shootout.

Next Stop: Semifinals Against Guatemala

After a tumultuous match filled with ups and downs, the USMNT emerged victorious, securing a spot in the semifinals where they will face Guatemala on Wednesday in St. Louis. With the confidence gained from battling back against Costa Rica and the resilience shown by their young goalkeeper, the Americans have a firm foundation to build upon as they continue their pursuit of Gold Cup glory.