Guatemala Eyes Gold Cup Glory After Stunning Canada, Says Coach Tena

St. Louis, MO – July 1, 2025: With hearts full of ambition and a nation behind them, Guatemala’s national football team is making a bold push to rewrite history in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Head coach Luis Fernando Tena says his players are not just participating — they’re hungry to win it all.

In a stunning quarterfinal upset, Guatemala eliminated Canada on penalties this past Sunday, sending shockwaves through the tournament and setting the stage for a highly anticipated semifinal clash against the host nation, the United States, at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday.

“These players are hungry for success, for growth, for continuing to make history,” said Tena during Tuesday’s press conference. “We are calm and confident our players will give their all on the field.”

Tena, a respected Mexican coach who has led Guatemala’s revival, praised the team’s spirit and progress, expressing both gratitude and motivation ahead of their biggest match in decades.

“My message to the players is going to be to enjoy it, but also to congratulate them and thank them for what they’ve done so far,” he added.

History in the Making

Guatemala is back in the Gold Cup semifinal for the first time in 29 years — their last appearance was in 1996, when they narrowly lost to Mexico 1-0. That campaign ended in a 3-0 third-place defeat to the United States, something this squad hopes to avenge on Wednesday.

While the United States enters as the heavy favorite, Coach Tena remains optimistic, reminding reporters that few gave Guatemala a chance against Canada — and yet they triumphed.

“It’s obvious that the United States is the favorite… but we know the games have to be played,” Tena said. “We’re pushing ourselves and aren’t satisfied with what we’ve done so far.”

Looking Ahead to the Final

A win over the U.S. would secure Guatemala’s first-ever trip to a Gold Cup final, an achievement that would mark a historic milestone in Central American football. The team has demonstrated grit, composure, and tactical discipline — qualities that may well carry them into the spotlight come Sunday’s final.

The 67-year-old Tena concluded by stating that Guatemala is here to compete — not just to participate. With the eyes of the region on them, the players will be looking to seize their moment and bring home a dream victory.

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