The 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup has come and gone and this year’s edition did not disappoint. Out of 25 total matches there were 55 total goals scored, a combined attendance of over 800,000 fans. We saw some surprises, some first timers and many young players got to showcase their talents at the international level. In the end we were left with some memorable moments.
Team USA may have walked away with the trophy and the glory, but there was plenty of Latino Pride to be had at El Copa Oro. Many Latino players had their moments to shine through various points of this three week affair. Here are the Latino players who stood out at the 2017 Gold Cup…..
Omar Gonzalez, United States Midfielder
He’s one of only two U.S. Soccer players to score two goals in this tournament (the other being forward Jozy Altidore). Although they were just the second and third goals respectively of his international career, they became significant moments for Team USA. His first goal was the start of a three-goal barrage in group play against Martinique. His second goal was part of the semifinal shutout of El Salvador. And at just 28-years-old, he’s expected to be a future contributor for U.S. Soccer.
Nelson Bonilla, El Salvador Forward
Like Gonzalez, Bonilla also scored two goals for his country. And like Gonzalez his goals were significant moments for his team. Both of Bonilla’s goals came in the Group C bracket. He scored El Salvador’s only goal in the group opening loss to Mexico, and again was the only scorer in a draw with Jamaica two games later. Those games combined with a win over Curacao were enough to push the Salvadorians into the knockout stages.
Gabriel Torres, Panama Forward
This 28-year-old is also part of the Gold Cup’s deuce club. His goals in Group B victories over Nicaragua and Martinique gave Panama a second place finish in said group (2-1-0, 7 points) behind the United States and put them into the knockout stages.