Raúl Jiménez’s Goal Secures Mexico’s Spot in 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final Against U.S.

Overview

In a thrilling semifinal match at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, Raúl Jiménez propelled Mexico to their 12th CONCACAF Gold Cup final with a decisive 1-0 victory over Honduras on July 2, 2025. The lone goal, scored in the 50th minute with an assist from 16-year-old prodigy Gilberto Mora, set up a highly anticipated showdown against the United States in the final on Sunday, July 6, at NRG Stadium in Houston.

Match Recap

Mexico, ranked No. 17 globally, dominated possession but faced a resilient Honduras side that reached the semifinals for the first time since 2013. The first half saw few clear chances, with Honduras goalkeeper Edrick Menjívar making crucial saves, including a sharp stop against Marcel Ruíz in the 42nd minute. Mexico goalkeeper Luis Malagón, meanwhile, maintained a clean sheet with an easy save on a long-range shot from Dixon Ramírez.

The breakthrough came early in the second half when Alexis Vega initiated a move, passing to Mora near the top of the penalty area. Mora’s precise slide pass found Jiménez, who struck a powerful right-footed shot past Menjívar for his 42nd career international goal, bringing him closer to Javier Hernández’s national record of 52. Moments later, Mexico thought they had doubled their lead when Edson Álvarez scored off a set piece, but the goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR review.

Despite Honduras’s efforts to equalize, Mexico’s defense held firm, conceding just one shot on target and 0.10 expected goals (xG), marking one of the tournament’s stingiest defensive performances. Mexico has not allowed a goal in 383 minutes, with Malagón needing only one save across the last three matches.

Key Performances

• Raúl Jiménez: The Fulham striker was the difference-maker, scoring his sixth game-winning goal in a 1-0 victory for Mexico, including his third in Gold Cup play (previously against Haiti in 2019 and Trinidad and Tobago in 2023). His physical presence and clinical finishing underscored his reputation as a versatile forward, often compared to Zlatan Ibrahimović.
• Gilberto Mora: At just 16 years and 257 days, the teenage midfielder became the youngest player to feature for Mexico’s senior team, delivering a composed assist in a high-stakes match. His inclusion by coach Javier Aguirre was a bold move that paid dividends.
• Javier Aguirre: The head coach, leading Mexico to his second Gold Cup final (previously in 2009), orchestrated a disciplined performance, leveraging both veteran leadership and emerging talent.

The Road to the Final

Mexico’s path to the final was not without challenges. In the group stage, they tied with Costa Rica in points but secured the top spot via goal differential. Their defensive solidity has been a hallmark, conceding just 1.6 shots on target per game—the lowest in the tournament. The United States, led by Mauricio Pochettino and propelled by Diego Luna’s two goals in a 2-1 semifinal win over Guatemala, presents a formidable challenge. The U.S. went unbeaten in the group stage, conceding only one goal, but faces a Mexico side with a historical edge, holding a 5-2 record in Gold Cup final meetings.

Historical Context

This final marks the eighth Gold Cup title clash between Mexico and the U.S., with Mexico having won nine tournaments and the U.S. seven, while Canada claimed the lone outlier in 2000. Mexico aims to secure their 10th title and defend their 2023 crown, while the U.S. seeks to add to their tally in their 13th final appearance. The rivalry, intensified by their shared hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada, promises a fierce battle.

What’s Next

The final on July