Guatemala

Guatemala have been a determined and resilient competitor in the Gold Cup, making 11 appearances as of 2023. Their best tournament finish came in 1996, when they reached the semi-finals and finished fourth.

In the 2021 Gold Cup, Guatemala struggled in a challenging Group A, failing to advance with one draw and two losses.

The 2023 campaign marked a significant improvement as they topped their group ahead of Canada with two wins and a draw, including a 1-0 victory over Cuba and a dramatic 3-2 win against Guadeloupe. Their journey ended in the quarterfinals after a narrow 1-0 loss to Jamaica, but the performance signaled a resurgence for Los Chapines.

Historically, Guatemala has enjoyed regional success, winning the CONCACAF Championship in 1967 and finishing as runners-up in 1965 and 1989.

Star Players

• Nathaniel Méndez-Laing (Derby County/MK Dons) – A dynamic winger with English youth pedigree who made his international debut for Guatemala in June 2023, immediately injecting flair and pace into the attack. He was an England youth international before transferring nationality in 2023, quite late in his career.
• Rubio Rubín (Querétaro FC) – Guatemala’s go-to goal threat with international experience from both North America and Europe. Formerly a U.S. international, he switched allegiance and has since netted 11 goals in 30 appearances for Guatemala.

• Luis Morán (Antigua GFC) – A steady and reliable presence between the posts, anchoring the defense with composure and shot-stopping ability.
• Nicolás Samayoa (ACSM Politehnica Iasi) – Commanding at the heart of defense, bringing experience, aerial prowess, and leadership as the organizer at the back.
• Aaron Herrera (DC United) – One of Guatemala’s most highly rated players, whose versatility allows him to excel both in defense and midfield with tactical intelligence and work rate.

Head coach

Luis Fernando Tena is a highly respected Mexican football manager born in 1958. Renowned for his tactical intelligence and calm leadership, Tena boasts an extensive résumé across top Liga MX clubs. His managerial career highlights include winning the 1997 Liga MX title with Cruz Azul, the 2000 championship with Morelia, and most notably, guiding Mexico’s U23 team to Olympic gold at London 2012. Since taking charge of Guatemala in 2021, Tena has brought a disciplined, adaptable approach, favoring a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Schedule

• June 16, 2025: vs Jamaica (GC) – Los Angeles, Dignity Health
• June 20, 2025: vs Panama (GC) – Austin, Q2 Stadium
• June 24, 2025: vs Guadeloupe (GC) – Houston, Shell Energy Stadium

Squad: