USMNT Eyes Gold Cup Final Glory as They Face Guatemala in Crucial Semifinal Showdown
The United States men's national soccer team stands just one victory away from reaching the Concacaf Gold Cup championship match. Under Mauricio Pochettino's guidance, the squad managed to escape potential disaster by defeating Costa Rica through a quarterfinal penalty kick battle, while simultaneously fostering confidence that claiming silverware this summer remains within reach.
Their path forward may not feature the retribution they initially desired, considering Canada suffered a surprising defeat to Guatemala. However, the team should view the semifinal stage as a significant chance to advance. Mexico will likely be waiting in the championship game if both nations progress, though the USMNT enters as clear favorites against their upcoming semifinal adversary.
Matt Freese has continued establishing his reputation throughout this summer campaign while taking on primary goalkeeping duties. His vital stops during the penalty shootout earned him continued consideration for Gold Cup matches. This could signal a potential shift in hierarchy, especially since Matt Turner has been absent from summer action.
Below is how the USMNT might arrange their formation against Guatemala in the Gold Cup semifinals.
USMNT Predicted Lineup vs. Guatemala (4-2-3-1)
GK: Matt Freese—The New York City FC shot-stopper delivered when it mattered most in the penalty battle and appears set to feature in whatever remaining matches the USMNT contests in this competition.
RB: Alex Freeman—Freeman keeps building his credentials for next summer as Pochettino's preferred right-back option during this tournament.
CB: Chris Richards—Richards has openly positioned himself as one of the vocal leaders within this roster.
CB: Tim Ream—Ream is expected to maintain his starting role this summer, though supporters desire greater stability defensively and smoother distribution from the back.
LB: Max Arfsten—Arfsten could have become discouraged after giving away a penalty during the opening period. The Columbus Crew defender bounced back by providing an assist for the equalizing goal and netting his debut
DM: Sebastian Berhalter—Berhalter failed to convert his penalty attempt in the shootout, with his father's reaction from the stands becoming a viral moment. Nevertheless, Pochettino should maintain faith in him for another appearance.
DM: Tyler Adams—The experienced captain of the squad. Adams controls the midfield while seeking to secure USMNT's place in the championship match.
RM: Jack McGlynn—McGlynn entered as a substitute against Costa Rica, though he merits a starting opportunity in the upcoming round.
AM: Malik Tillman—Tillman endured significant contact against Costa Rica during an extremely aggressive contest. However, he remains the top choice in the attacking midfielder role and deserves to start.
LM: Diego Luna—Luna found the back of the net for the equalizing goal against Costa Rica while continuing to establish himself as a supporter favorite.
ST: Brian White—Should Pochettino consider a lineup adjustment, he might deploy the Vancouver Whitecaps forward in the striker position. While Patrick Agyemang undoubtedly creates difficulties up front, Pochettino may prefer an alternative approach against Guatemala.