Guatemala stuns Canada with a thrilling penalty shootout
After a 1-1 tie in regular time, Guatemala stunned Canada on Sunday night by winning a thrilling penalty shootout 6–5 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. In addition to eliminating Canada, the runners-up from 2023, this upset advanced Guatemala to the Gold Cup semifinals for the first time since 1996, marking a significant turning point for Los Chapines.
⚽ Match Recap: A Surprise and Shift Game
Canada’s Initial Momentum
From the first whistle, Canada controlled the tempo and dominated possession. After defender Aaron Herrera fouled Tani Oluwaseyi in the box, striker Jonathan David calmly tapped home a penalty kick in the 30th minute, capping off their early pressure. The Lille attacker put Canada ahead 1-0 by displaying poise and sending goalie Kenderson Navarro the wrong way.
The CanMNT appeared ready to expand their lead now that they had it. Jacob Shaffelburg’s second yellow card for a careless challenge in midfield, however, broke their flow in first-half stoppage time. After the Nashville SC winger was dismissed, Canada was reduced to 10 men for the rest of the game, which proved to be a costly turning moment.
Guatemala Gets Better at the Game
Guatemala started to play more aggressively in the second half after realizing the change in momentum. By pressing higher and generating opportunities through wide play, they made the most of the additional man. They were rewarded for their perseverance in the 69th minute when Rubio Rubín headed the ball past Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair to tie the score at 1-1 after Oscar Santis had whipped in a precise cross from the left.
The game then devolved into a heated back-and-forth exchange. Guatemala outshot Canada 11–5 and controlled possession (58% overall). Nevertheless, neither team was able to score in regular or extra time, forcing a thrilling penalty shootout.
Nerves and execution were at odds during the shootout. The first four kicks were converted by both teams. Kenderson Navarro made a fantastic stop on Canada’s Cyle Larin’s fifth attempt, but Guatemalan veteran José Pinto squandered his opportunity to seal it by shooting his shot over the bar.
When sudden death kicked off, both teams maintained their composure, expertly placing each penalty with pinpoint accuracy.. However, the momentum shifted when Canadian defender Luc de Fougerolles struck his attempt against the crossbar.José Morales calmly stepped forward at the crucial moment and expertly sent the ball down the center, securing a 6–5 win for Guatemala in the shootout.
It exploded in the stadium. Players from Guatemala ran joyfully. Incredulous and proud, the fans roared. One of the most poignant Gold Cup moments in recent memory occurred.
Tactical Dissection
Guatemala’s approach on the field showcased the strategic insight of head coach Luis Fernando Tena, who urged his players to push forward and exploit the wings, especially utilizing the pace and creativity of Santis and Herrera. following Canada’s red card. Despite falling behind in the first half, Guatemala remained calm and balanced, not losing heart or overcommitting.
John Herdman, Canada’s head coach, was frustrated. Shaffelburg’s red card put them in a defensive stance from which they were unable to escape. In the second half, they had trouble coordinating the attack and midfield despite strong performances from players like Stephen Eustáquio and Alistair Johnston.