U.S. Soccer will host its next home World Cup qualifier against Guatemala in Columbus on March 29.
The two teams are scheduled to resume their Group C obligations next year with a home-and-home series as part of the six-match semifinal round schedule.
Guatemala will host the Americans at Estadio Mateo Flores in Guatemala City on May 25. The two teams will then travel to Columbus ahead of the return match at MAPFRE Stadium four days later.
The decision to host the match in Columbus reflects the importance of procuring all three points and underscores the enduring links between U.S. Soccer and Columbus.
MAPFRE Stadium -- the home of MLS side Columbus Crew SC -- is considered hallowed ground for the Americans. U.S. Soccer boasts a 7-0-3 record in the stadium all-time, including four straight victories over Mexico in World Cup qualifying matches.
This match does not present a similar challenge, though the Americans must procure the necessary points nevertheless. The hosts hold a 25-match unbeaten run against Guatemala since 1988, the longest such run against any opponent.
Jurgen Klinsmann’s side currently sits atop Group C with four points from two matches after defeating St. Vincent and the Grenadines and drawing Trinidad and Tobago earlier this month. Guatemala is in third place on three points.
