U.S. to meet Canada in Gold Cup semis

BOSTON (Reuters) - Hosts United States will face Canada in the semi-finals of the Gold Cup after the two teams beat Central American opposition on Saturday.

The U.S. overcame Panama 2-1 after Canada had booked their place in the last four with a 3-0 quarter-final victory over Guatemala, Ali Gerba scoring twice.

Bob Bradley's U.S. side, who won all three of their group games, reached their eighth semi-final in nine editions after being set on the path by a Landon Donovan penalty in the 59th minute.

Donovan had been brought down by Panama defender Carlos Rivera.

Three minutes later the U.S. doubled their advantage when Carlos Bocanegra rose well at the near post to head in an inswinging corner from DaMarcus Beasley.

The visitors had Manuel Torres sent off for a second bookable offence in the 76th minute.

Panama pulled a goal back thanks to a fine solo effort from Blas Perez in the 84th.

Canada, Gold Cup winners in 2000, had little trouble against Guatemala.

Gerba opened the scoring when he latched on to a through ball in the 16th minute.