Max Arfsten claimed Man of the Match honors after a goal and an assist against Costa Rica. Photo courtesy of UC Davis Athletics

DAVIS, CA (MPG) - Former UC Davis soccer standout Max Arfsten delivered a career-defining performance for the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) on June 29, powering a 2-2 (4-3 PKs) quarterfinal victory over Costa Rica in the Concacaf Gold Cup and earning Man of the Match honors.

The Columbus Crew star directly contributed to both U.S. goals in regulation. Arfsten provided an assist in the 43rd minute, setting up Diego Luna for the equalizer. 

Just 90 seconds into the second half, Arfsten followed up his assist in the first half by scoring his first international goal, a right-footed finish inside of the box, to give the U.S. Men's National Team a 2-1 lead in the 47th minute.

After Costa Rica leveled late in regulation, the match advanced to a penalty shootout, where the U.S. Men's National Team prevailed 4-3, clinching its semifinal berth.

Arfsten and the U.S. Men's National Team faced Guatemala on July 2, at Energizer Park in St. Louis, winning the series 2-1 and punching their ticket to the Gold Cup Final.