The U.S. men's national team (USMNT) advanced to the semifinals of the Concacaf Gold Cup after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Costa Rica in a penalty shootout, following a 2-2 draw in regulation on June 29, 2025.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino's roster included 15 MLS players, showcasing a strong domestic presence as the team aims for its eighth Gold Cup title.

Max Arfsten, a left-back, contributed significantly with an assist and a goal, although his inexperience highlighted the competitive environment for the position.

The match featured intense moments, including key saves, notably by Costa Rica's goalkeeper, which kept the game competitive.

Goalkeeper Freese has stepped into the starting role due to injuries to other goalkeepers, impressing Pochettino with his performance under pressure.

The dynamic between Freese and Matt Turner is framed as a supportive competition, with both pushing each other in training as they prepare for the World Cup.

Pochettino emphasized the importance of testing different goalkeepers ahead of the World Cup, acknowledging Turner's experience but noting his lack of recent playing time.

Despite the early exit in the tournament, young players like Niko Sigur and Nathan Saliba emerged as potential key contributors for the national team.

The outcome of this match is crucial not only for progression in the tournament but also for assessing player performances ahead of the next World Cup.

The USMNT's journey in this Gold Cup is seen as an opportunity to rebuild its culture and confidence, reflecting a shift in team dynamics and attitude.

The projected USA lineup for upcoming matches includes notable players such as Friz, Freeman, and Tillman, indicating a strong squad ready for competition.

As the tournament progresses, the USMNT is focused on reinforcing competitiveness and improving team dynamics, with friendly matches scheduled against Romania, Wales, and Colombia.