June 30, (THEWILL) — The United States edged past Costa Rica in the quarter-finals of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, prevailing 4–3 on penalties after a 2–2 draw in regular time at U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis. Damion Downs, brought on in the second half, converted the decisive penalty to book the Americans a place in the semi-finals. The result spared the hosts from a premature exit in a tournament that has already seen Panama and Canada eliminated.
New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese emerged as the hero during the shootout, producing three saves to turn the tide in favour of the United States. Freese’s performance proved crucial in a tightly contested match that saw both teams trade momentum throughout. The Americans will now face Guatemala on Wednesday, at Energiser Park, the new home of St. Louis CITY SC, with a place in the final at stake.
Costa Rica struck first in the 12th minute when veteran defender, Francisco Calvo, converted from the spot after Max Arfsten brought down Alonso Martínez inside the area. The lead held until just before the interval, when Diego Luna scored his first goal for the United States with a well-placed finish. Two minutes into the second half, Arfsten made amends by giving the Americans the lead, also registering his first international goal.
Despite losing their lead, Costa Rica remained composed and equalised in the 71st minute through Martínez, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to find the net from close range. With the match level at full time and extra time not scheduled for quarter-finals, the contest moved directly to penalties. Keylor Navas saved one kick, and Malik Tillman had earlier hit the post in regulation, but it was not enough for the Central American side.
The win keeps alive the United States’ hopes of a Gold Cup title on home soil, and adds to the narrative of a tournament marked by dramatic exits and tight finishes. For Costa Rica, the defeat ended their campaign despite a spirited performance and moments of individual brilliance that threatened to upset the balance.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
