Guatemala's National Soccer Team Eyes Regional Success in Nations League After World Cup Miss

After the disappointment of missing out on the 2026 World Cup, the Guatemalan national soccer team is setting its sights on a new competitive cycle. The upcoming 2026-2027 Concacaf Nations League presents a crucial opportunity for "La Bicolor" to rebuild its aspirations and aim for significant regional achievements.

The team, coached by Luis Fernando Tena, will compete in League A, the confederation's top tier, alongside regional powerhouses like Mexico, the United States, and Costa Rica. The tournament, running from September 2026 to March 2027, will feature a new Swiss format for its group stage. Twelve teams will be divided into two groups, with each team playing four matches. Guatemala's primary objective is to finish in the top two of its group to advance to the quarterfinals.

Beyond competing for the Nations League title, Guatemala is also focused on securing a berth in the 2027 Gold Cup. The Concacaf is expected to announce the qualification system for that tournament soon. Maintaining its position in League A will also be a key concern, as teams finishing fifth and sixth in their groups will be relegated to League B. Consistent performance will be vital for Guatemala to remain among the confederation's top 16 teams.

The journey begins with the official draw for the Nations League on July 23, where Guatemala will learn its opponents. This competition is seen as the ideal platform to measure the project's growth under Tena and to continue establishing the national team as a regional contender.