Oh, Canada—Guate the Goal! Gold Cup Dream Crashes in Penalty Plot Twist

Image Source: GTA Weekly

In a game that defied the odds and produced final tournament drama, Guatemala defeated Canada on a 6-5 penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regulation, securing a semifinal berth in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Matchday Momentum

Canada finally broke the deadlock in the 30th minute with a penalty from Jonathan David.

Guatemala equalized in the 69th minute through a clinical header from Rubio Rubín assisted by Oscar Santis.

Canada had 10 players on the field following Jacob Shaffelburg's red card in first-half stoppage time.

Shootout Spotlight

The penalty shootout extended to seven rounds, and Guatemala's José Morales secured the victory after Canada's Luc Rollet hit the crossbar.

Goalkeeper Kenderson Navarro was the hero, saving Cyle Larin and turning the tide in Guatemala's favor.

Upset Underdog

Though ranked 106th in the world, Guatemala controlled possession and outshot Canada.

The win puts them in the semifinals to play the winner of the USA vs Costa Rica.

AI Prediction and Reality

Pre-game computer simulations had established the likelihood of winning for Canada at 38%, but Guatemala's determination and tactical brilliance reversed the tables.

Sources: Associated Press, Sports Illustrated, MSN Sports, Covers.com, Transfermarkt, Livemint