Diego Luna Shines as the United States Defeats Guatemala to Secure a Spot in the Gold Cup Final

Diego Luna netted both goals as the United States overcame Guatemala 2-1 in St Louis on Wednesday, securing a spot in the final of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

The USA will face the winner of Wednesday’s other semi-final clash between Mexico and Honduras in the final scheduled for Sunday in Houston.

Luna, an emerging talent who represents Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer, opened the scoring in the 4th minute when a shot from Luca de la Torre was parried, allowing the 21-year-old to capitalise and slot it home.

The winger, who honed his skills in lower division football throughout Texas, doubled the lead in the 15th minute with a stunning individual effort.

Collecting the ball in midfield with space to operate, Luna advanced towards goal, evaded a challenge, and unleashed a shot from over 20 yards that found the back of the net.

Guatemala’s Rubio Rubin saw one shot saved by USA goalkeeper Matt Freese, and another effort was ruled out for offside, much to the dismay of his team’s passionate away supporters.

Sebastian Berhalter nearly added a third goal just before half-time with a deflected free-kick that forced a good save from Kenderson Navarro.

Under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, the USA, having entered the tournament on a four-match losing streak, found themselves under increasing pressure from a spirited Guatemala after the interval.

This pressure mounted when the Central Americans found the net in the 80th minute as Arquimides Ordonez weaved into the box before young Boston native Olger Escobar fired into the net.

The home crowd held their breath in stoppage time when Jose Morales unleashed a low shot from the edge of the area, but Freese reacted well to dive and push the ball wide.