The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) secured a thrilling victory on July 2, 2025, in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. After a 2-2 draw with Guatemala, the U.S. triumphed in a penalty shootout, 4-2, to reach the final. The match, held at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri, captivated soccer fans across the U.S., and Miami was no exception. The city’s vibrant soccer community rallied behind the national team, with local bars, fan clubs, and even watch parties creating an electric atmosphere.
Miami’s Passion for Soccer
As one of the U.S.’s most multicultural cities, Miami has long been a hotbed for soccer. The city’s connection to Latin America means that there is a deep-rooted love for soccer, with fans showing unwavering support for both local team Inter Miami CF and the U.S. Men’s National Team.
Miami’s soccer bars—such as The American Social in Brickell—transformed into gathering spots for fans eager to watch the U.S. Men’s National Team fight for a spot in the Gold Cup final. The anticipation was palpable as fans donned jerseys from Inter Miami and national team colors, chanting and cheering the U.S. on throughout the match.
Fans watched nervously as Guatemala took the lead in the first half, but a stunning goal from Giovanni Reyna kept the U.S. hopes alive. Local fan clubs such as Miami Ultras and Inter Miami Supporters Group filled the stands at nearby sports bars, creating a sense of community that connected both local and national soccer fans. The scene in Miami was a reminder of how the sport has brought the city together, bridging cultural gaps and providing an outlet for collective pride.
Key Moments of the Game
While the match was taking place in St. Louis, the Miami soccer community was buzzing with energy. The U.S. faced a tough challenge from Guatemala, who stunned many by scoring an early goal. As the game progressed, it became evident that the U.S. would need to dig deep to secure a victory. As Tyler Adams and Christian Pulisic pushed forward with determination, the match’s momentum shifted in favor of the U.S.
With the game tied at 2-2 and heading into extra time, Miami fans held their breath. The penalty shootout was tense, with Matt Freese stepping up to make a game-changing save for the U.S. The U.S. team converted all four penalties, sending them into the final.
Miami’s Connection to U.S. Soccer
In addition to the strong following for the U.S. Men’s National Team, Miami has become a focal point for American soccer’s growing influence, particularly with the presence of Inter Miami CF, owned by David Beckham. Inter Miami’s connection to the U.S. team strengthens the bond between Miami’s soccer culture and the broader national soccer scene.
The presence of international stars at Inter Miami, combined with the U.S. Men’s National Team’s success in the Gold Cup, has sparked greater interest in the sport throughout Miami. Soccer fans in the city are passionate about the sport, and the excitement around the U.S. team’s performance at the Gold Cup is a reflection of how soccer has become ingrained in Miami’s identity.
The Road to the Final
Looking ahead, Miami fans are eagerly anticipating the final match on July 6, 2025, when the U.S. will face off against either Mexico or Canada for the Gold Cup championship. The stakes are high, and with a vibrant community of supporters in Miami, there’s no doubt that the city will be cheering loudly for the U.S. team.
For local soccer fans, the Gold Cup offers an opportunity to unite in support of the national team and reflect on the growth of soccer in Miami, where soccer is not just a sport but a powerful cultural force that brings people together.