Canada’s Gold Cup Run Ends in Heartbreaking Shootout
Canada’s journey in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup came to a dramatic end on Sunday night in Minneapolis with a heartbreaking Canada Gold Cup shootout loss to Guatemala. After a 1-1 draw in regulation, both sides battled through seven rounds of penalty kicks. Ultimately, Jose Morales buried the winning shot, sending Guatemala to its first Gold Cup semifinal since 1996.
Shootout Drama: Morales Ends Canada’s Campaign
The match reached peak intensity in the seventh round of penalty kicks. Initially, both teams matched each other goal for goal. However, Luc De Fougerolles struck the post for Canada, opening the door for Guatemala. Morales capitalized with a cool, composed finish straight down the middle. As Dayne St. Clair dove the wrong way, Guatemala clinched a 6-5 victory.
Key Match Events: From Red Cards to Equalizers
Earlier in the game, Jonathan David gave Canada the lead with a composed 30th-minute penalty. Unfortunately, momentum shifted just before halftime when Jacob Shaffelburg received a red card for a reckless foul on Stheven Robles. As a result, Canada played the entire second half with 10 men.
In the 69th minute, Rubio Rubin, a former U.S. international, scored the equalizer for Guatemala. His goal shifted the tide and energized the underdogs. Despite being a man down, Canada managed to hold on until the penalty shootout.
Historic Moment for Guatemala
Guatemala’s win was more than just an upset. Indeed, it marked their first Gold Cup semifinal appearance in 29 years. With this achievement, they now prepare to face the winner between the United States and Costa Rica.
Moreover, this success highlights Guatemala’s growing strength in regional football. Their disciplined play and composure under pressure proved decisive.
Canada’s Ongoing Gold Cup Struggles
This defeat continues a worrying trend for Canadian soccer. Once again, they failed to reach the semifinals, just as they did in the last tournament. Despite having stars like Jonathan David and Cyle Larin, Canada lacked discipline and depth.
Consequently, fans and analysts are beginning to question the team’s consistency and mental toughness in high-pressure scenarios.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Canada and Guatemala?
As Canada exits the Gold Cup, the spotlight now shifts to Guatemala’s historic semifinal run. For Canada, tough questions lie ahead. Meanwhile, Guatemala’s focus turns to preparing for their toughest match yet. Canada Gold Cup shootout loss.
Ultimately, Sunday’s result was a mix of disappointment and inspiration — depending on which side you support.
Key Takeaways
- Canada lost 6-5 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw with Guatemala.
- Jose Morales scored the winning penalty in the seventh round.
- Jonathan David scored Canada’s lone goal via penalty.
- Jacob Shaffelburg’s red card hurt Canada’s chances in the second half.
- Guatemala reaches the Gold Cup semifinals for the first time since 1996.
FAQs: Canada Gold Cup Shootout Loss
Q1: Who scored the winning penalty for Guatemala?
Jose Morales buried the decisive penalty in the seventh round, sending Guatemala to the semifinals.
Q2: What was the final penalty score in the Canada vs. Guatemala match?
The shootout ended 6-5 in favor of Guatemala after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Q3: Why did Canada play with 10 men?
Jacob Shaffelburg received a red card in first-half stoppage time for a foul on Guatemala’s Stheven Robles.
Q4: When did Guatemala last reach the Gold Cup semifinals?
Guatemala last reached the semifinals of the Gold Cup in 1996.
Q5: Who will Guatemala face in the semifinals?
Guatemala will play the winner of the United States vs. Costa Rica quarterfinal match.
