Houston, TX – In a crucial Group C match of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, José Pinto converted a penalty in the 13th minute, giving Guatemala an early 1-0 lead over Guadeloupe at Shell Energy Stadium. The penalty was awarded after a foul by Guadeloupe's Anthony Baron, who received a yellow card in the 12th minute for the infraction. Pinto calmly slotted the ball into the center of the goal, sending the Guatemalan fans into a frenzy.

The early goal set the tone for a critical encounter for both teams. Guatemala, with three points from a previous victory against Jamaica, needed a win to enhance their chances of advancing to the quarterfinals. Guadeloupe, having suffered defeats against Panama and Jamaica, were desperate for a victory to keep their hopes alive.

Guatemala doubled their advantage in the 29th minute when Olger Escobar scored from the center of the box, assisted by Rubio Rubín, making it 2-0.

This is the third Gold Cup meeting between Guadeloupe and Guatemala. Their first encounter was in the 2021 Gold Cup Prelims, ending in a 1-1 draw, with Guadeloupe advancing after a dramatic 10-9 penalty shootout victory. The second meeting occurred in the 2023 Gold Cup, where Guatemala secured a 3-2 comeback win.

Both teams are looking for a win. Guadeloupe, coached by Jocelyn Angloma, conceded seven goals in two losses to Panama and Jamaica. While Thierry Ambrose and Jordan Leborgne have scored for them, they need a strong performance to secure a win. Guatemala, under the guidance of Luis Fernando Tena, has one goal so far in the tournament, scored by Oscar Santi. They also need a win to reach the quarterfinals.

The match is being played at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas, which has a capacity of 22,000.