Overview

• CONCACAF’s direct-to-penalty rule for knockout matches has sent quarterfinal ties straight to shootouts, amplifying sudden-death drama
• The USMNT advanced to its 17th Gold Cup semifinal in 18 editions after a 2-2 draw and a 4-3 shootout win over Costa Rica, highlighted by Matt Freese’s three saves and Damion Downs’s clinching kick
• Guatemala, ranked 106th in the world, stunned Canada in a seven-round shootout to reach its first Gold Cup semifinal since 1996, showcasing emerging challengers in the region
• Despite missing key starters Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah and Weston McKennie, the Americans have leaned on squad depth and reserves to navigate the group stage and knockout rounds
• Mexico meets Honduras in the other semifinal at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, with bettors favoring Mexico at +100 odds and the United States at +110 to win the tournament