How Guatemala Reached the Gold Cup Semifinals After a 29-Year Absence
When Mexican manager Luis Fernando Tena arrived in Guatemala, he clearly understood the monumental task ahead: leading this vibrant nation to its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance. While that ambitious goal still lies in the future, his journey so far has yielded significant milestones that have reinvigorated the national team and its passionate fan base.
One of the most notable achievements came during a thrilling Gold Cup quarterfinal showdown against Canada, where Guatemala triumphed in a high-pressure penalty shootout. This victory was not just a win; it marked the first time Los Chapines reached the semifinals of the Gold Cup since 1996. For Tena, this success was extremely emotional, leading him to tears as he reveled in the joy shared with his players and the devoted supporters present. “It’s impossible not to get emotional with the support the fans give us,” he expressed, highlighting the heartwarming connection between the team and its followers.
The strong relationship Tena has developed with Guatemalan fans has been palpable. His name has become a rallying cry in stadiums, reinforcing a sense of unity and purpose. This bond is especially impressive considering the hurdles he faced to take the helm of the national team. At 67 years old, Tena boasts an impressive coaching résumé that includes a title with Cruz Azul and a gold medal as Mexico’s U23 manager at the 2012 Olympics.
Guatemala’s footballing landscape had seen its fair share of difficulties prior to Tena’s appointment. The nation was still grappling with the long-term effects of a FIFA suspension, which was finally lifted in 2018. This suspension had stymied their progress, restricting the national team’s development and competitiveness on the international stage. Initially entering the inaugural Concacaf Nations League in League C, Guatemala managed to secure a spot in the Gold Cup only after a fortunate turn of events—stepping in at the last moment when Curaçao, impacted by COVID-19, had to withdraw.
When Tena was appointed in 2021, he recognized the need for a blend of young talent and experienced players to foster improvement. The Guatemalan league has long been home to a couple of historic teams, yet it has struggled to produce players who can thrive in more competitive environments abroad. Tena understood that innovation was essential.
Enter Juan Rodas, a fervent advocate for Guatemalan soccer, particularly involving the diaspora. Rodas invested considerable effort in connecting with Guatemalan-Americans. His outreach garnered significant attention, bringing critical talent into the national conversation. He even assisted players in navigating the paperwork necessary to join the national team, an effort that has been instrumental in broadening the talent pool.
Three key contributors from the Canada victory—Rubio Rubín, Olger Escobar, and Aaron Herrera—were U.S.-born but chose to represent the team rooted in their heritage. This blend of nationalities is evolving Guatemala’s football culture, demonstrating that the strength of the squad resides not solely in homegrown talent but in those who also carry a connection to the country.
This inclusive approach has helped foster a harmonious dynamic within the squad. In the tense moments leading up to the penalty shootout against Canada, players stood united, arms around each other, embodying a sense of solidarity irrespective of their origins. The celebration was not just about victory; it was about redeeming national pride.
An unexpected hero in this journey has been goalkeeper Kenderson Navarro. Despite limited experience at the international level, he emerged as a pivotal player, stepping up when the regular starter, Nicholas Hagen, faced injury woes. Navarro showcased remarkable composure, notably saving a crucial penalty kick, which symbolized much more than just a single play—it epitomized Guatemala’s resilience.
As Tena leads his squad into the semifinals of the Gold Cup, further excitement looms. The format of the tournament has evolved significantly since its inception, expanding to accommodate 16 teams and numerous host cities. This advancement, coupled with a legendary coach and an ever-passionate fan base, has instilled a renewed sense of hope. The ultimate goal remains a World Cup appearance, but for Guatemala, each victory in this tournament represents a step toward something much larger than just a game. With hope restored, the emotions surrounding this team are palpable, painting a picture rich with potential and pride.