USA vs Mexico: 2024 Gold Cup Final Set After Semifinal Wins

Diego Luna scored twice in the first 15 minutes to lift the United States past Guatemala 2-1 on Wednesday night, sending the Americans to their first CONCACAF Gold Cup final since 2021. The U.S. will face defending champion Mexico, who edged Honduras 1-0 in the other semifinal.

Luna struck in the 4th and 15th minutes, giving him three goals in two matches and the U.S. a strong early lead. Guatemala fought back in front of a heavily pro-Guatemalan crowd of 22,423 at Energizer Park, with 18-year-old Olger Escobar pulling one back in the 80th minute. Matt Freese made a key stoppage-time save to preserve the win.

Guatemala, ranked No. 106, outshot the U.S. 20-12 and dominated much of the first half but fell short of reaching its first final. Former U.S. internationals Rubio Rubin and Aaron Herrera started for Guatemala, with Rubin having a 29th-minute goal disallowed for offside.

Mexico secured its spot in the final with a 50th-minute goal from Raúl Jiménez, assisted by 16-year-old Gilberto Mora. El Tri had a second goal overturned by VAR but held off Honduras for the win. Mexico has now gone 383 minutes without conceding a goal.

Sunday's final in Houston marks the eighth Gold Cup title matchup between the U.S. and Mexico. Mexico holds a 5–2 edge in previous finals and has won nine Gold Cups to the U.S.’s seven. It will be the Americans' final competitive match before the 2026 World Cup.

How to watch USMNT vs. Mexico

1. Date: Sunday, July 6 | Time: 6 p.m.
2. Location: NRG Stadium -- Houston, Texas
3. TV: Fox