Matt Freese's remarkable performance in the penalty shootout against Costa Rica has propelled the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) into the Gold Cup semifinals. Freese saved three penalty kicks, becoming the hero of the match and securing a 4-3 victory for the U.S. after a 2-2 draw. The USMNT will now face Guatemala in the semifinals on Wednesday, July 2nd, in St. Louis.

The match against Costa Rica was a rollercoaster. Max Arfsten conceded an early penalty, putting the U.S. behind. However, Diego Luna scored his first international goal just before halftime, and Arfsten redeemed himself with a goal in the second half, giving the U.S. a 2-1 lead. Costa Rica later equalized, sending the game into a penalty shootout.

Freese's penalty-saving heroics proved to be the difference. He saved the second, fifth, and sixth penalty kicks from Costa Rica, giving his team multiple opportunities to win. Sebastian Berhalter and John Tolkin missed potential winning opportunities, but Freese's final save set the stage for Damion Downs to score the decisive penalty.

"Penalties are my thing," Freese told FOX Sports after the match. He revealed that he had been studying penalties on the plane ride to Minnesota, preparing himself for the possibility of a shootout. Freese also credited his goalkeeping coach for suggesting a unique approach to one of the saves.

Freese's performance has drawn praise from fans and analysts alike. Clay Travis, the founder of OutKick, lauded Freese's "phenomenal goal keeping" on X. Some are even suggesting that Freese's heroics could position him as a potential starting goalkeeper for the USMNT at the World Cup next year.

The USMNT's victory over Costa Rica showcased the team's intensity, personality, and confidence. Despite conceding an early goal, the Americans responded with resilience and determination. The win extends the USMNT's impressive Gold Cup semifinal streak, marking their 13th consecutive appearance in the tournament's final four.

Matt Freese's stellar performance in the Gold Cup quarterfinal has not only propelled the USMNT to the next stage but has also solidified his place as a rising star in American soccer. His penalty-saving expertise and calm demeanor under pressure have earned him the moniker "Matty Ice". As the USMNT looks ahead to the semifinal against Guatemala, they will be relying on Freese to maintain his exceptional form and guide them towards their ultimate goal of winning the Gold Cup.