10-man Canada eliminated in Gold Cup quarterfinal after penalty shootout loss to Guatemala
Canada’s journey in the CONCACAF Gold Cup came to an end in a heartbreaking fashion as they were eliminated by Guatemala in a penalty shootout. Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Canadians were reduced to 10 men when Jacob Shaffelburg was sent off in the first half, making their task even more challenging.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, leading to a tense penalty shootout. In the end, it was Guatemala who emerged victorious, winning 6-5 in the shootout. The young Canadian defender Luc de Fougerolles hit the crossbar, allowing Guatemala to secure their spot in the semifinals.
Despite the disappointment, Canadian coach Jesse Marsch remained positive, emphasizing the need to learn from the experience. He acknowledged that his team had made progress but stressed the importance of being at their best in crucial moments.
The defeat to Guatemala highlighted the need for Canada to continue improving, especially with the upcoming World Cup on the horizon. Marsch expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back and grow from the setback.
The match was a physical and intense affair, with both teams giving their all on the field. The Canadians fought hard, taking the lead through a Jonathan David penalty before being pegged back by a well-taken goal from Rubio Rubin.
Despite the loss, Canada can take pride in their performance throughout the Gold Cup, where they finished at the top of their group. The team showed resilience and determination, showcasing their potential for the future.
Looking ahead, Canada will shift their focus to friendlies as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. The experience gained from the Gold Cup will serve as a valuable lesson for the team as they continue their journey towards success.
As the dust settles on their Gold Cup campaign, Canada will reflect on the highs and lows of the tournament. While the loss to Guatemala stings, it will only fuel their desire to come back stronger and prove their worth on the international stage.
