'Lacked Grit & Determination'- Diego Luna's Big Statement After USMNT's Gold Cup Success

Guatemala had opportunities to score but were unable to get many shots on target. In the first half, the Central Americans had three shots on target.

In the second half, Guatemala kept insisting on scoring until they did in the 80th minute. The USMNT were not comfortable until the final whistle as Guatemala kept the pressure on.

The final whistle was a relief for Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT fans, but Diego Luna could not help but criticize the team's performance for the majority of the game.

Diego Luna's Honest Take from USMNT vs Guatemala

Diego Luna did not hide his opinions about his team's performance against Guatemala in the semifinal of the Gold Cup. His words suggest the team lacked effort in some parts of the game, which could've cost them.

Despite the slight frustration, Luna was happy with the result and the ability to represent the United States on the big stage. He explained what representing the USMNT means to him. 

USMNT's Path to the 2025 Gold Cup Final

The USMNT was in Group D of the 2025 Gold Cup. They were put in a group that had Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Haiti.

Team USA's first game of the Gold Cup was against Trinidad and Tobago, where the Americans won 5-0. A brace from Malik Tillman, and goals from Patrick Agyemang, Brenden Aaronson, and Haji Wright sealed the win.

In the second group stage game, the USA defeated Saudi Arabia 1-0 thanks to a goal from Chris Richards. In the third group stage game, the USA defeated Haiti 2-1 with goals from Tillman and Agyemang.

The toughest match for the USMNT was in the quarterfinals, where they drew 2-2 against Costa Rica in 90 minutes. The game went straight to penalties, and the USA won 4-3 in the penalty shootout. 

USA reaches the final after their 2-1 win over Guatemala in the semifinals. Luna and Tillman are the top goal scorers for the USMNT in the Gold Cup with three goals each.