The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) faced off against Costa Rica in the Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinal on June 29, 2025, in a match filled with drama and momentum swings. Max Arfsten, the USMNT left back, played a pivotal role in the game, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
The match began with Costa Rica taking an early lead. In the 12th minute, Francisco Calvo converted a penalty, putting Costa Rica ahead 1-0. The penalty was awarded after Arfsten made a hard tackle on Kenneth Vargas in the box. The USMNT faced further frustration when Malik Tillman missed a penalty in the 37th minute, hitting the left post.
However, the United States responded, with Diego Luna scoring in the 43rd minute to equalize, assisted by Max Arfsten. Arfsten then put the USMNT ahead early in the second half. In the 47th minute, Arfsten finished in the box, giving the United States a 2-1 lead over Costa Rica. Later, Reddit users noted that in the 58th minute, Max Arfsten (USA) made a right footed shot from the left side of the box to the bottom right corner and was assisted by Malik Tillman.
Despite the USMNT's lead, Costa Rica fought back. Alonso Martínez scored in the 71st minute to tie the game 2-2. The match went to extra time, and later penalties, after a late goal from Costa Rica. Ultimately, Costa Rica would rally to tie the match at 2-2.
Arfsten's contributions were crucial, as he not only assisted on Luna's goal but also scored what was then the go-ahead goal for the Americans. For his performance, he was subbed out in the 84th minute for John Tolkin.
The USMNT's starting lineup featured Matt Freese in goal, continuing his run as the preferred choice over Matt Turner. The team also included Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Alex Freeman, Malik Tillman, Luca de la Torre, Tyler Adams, Patrick Agyemang, Diego Luna, and Sebastian Berhalter.
This game marked another chapter in the ongoing rivalry between the United States and Costa Rica, with both teams fiercely contesting for a spot in the Gold Cup semifinals.
