José Carlos Pinto, Captain of the National Combined, He said that the Guatemala selection turns with its head high after ending on the Podium of the Gold Cup 2025, signing the best performance in its history.
The blue and white, With work, claw and union, he surpassed rivals and got among the best three of the tournament. Pinto, one of the pillars of the group led by Luis Fernando Tena, highlighted the commitment of his teammates and the connection that has been formed with the fans.
The leadership of the central defender It has been essential to maintain the balance between young and experienced players. As confessed, that mixture and the support of the fans were key to the performance shown in the United States.
This Friday, Pinto returned to Guatemalan soil With enthusiasm and the eye on the Rabiking rUMBO to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Thanks the support
The captain was visibly excited for the follow -up that the national team received during and after the Gold Cup 2025.
“First I want to thank people with the support they gave us in all Gold Cup matches. We saw how that madness overflowed here and there. We were local in any stadium that we were and the truth is that it fills us with a lot of joy that we are all joining and walk to the same side, ”said Pinto.
He also highlighted the emotion of the reception, “the truth that I am very happy, cheerful that they have received us in a great way. We have rarely had these receptions, But well, happy, happy, excited and motivated for what is coming. ”
Bumn motivation
Pinto revealed that the group is strengthened and confident thanks to the support of coach Luis Fernando Tena, and confessed that what was lived in the semifinal to the United States was surprising, even for the attitude of the rival who ended up wasting time.
“No, I didn’t imagine it, really, but I think we made that happen, We made them also feel a little fear. Because we wanted to go for the game, we wanted to tie it, we wanted to be in the final and they also felt that. But well, I think that must fill us with great strength and very motivation, ”he explained.
In the face of the tie to the 2026 World Cup, Pinto said that respect for Guatemala has changed, “yes, definitely, toHour several selections are afraid of Guatemala. We also know that the qualifiers are separate games, they will be different games. And now you have to continue for that same gapwe must continue on that same path so that they also feel that we want the ultimate goal, ”he said.