Edson Alvarez’s tiebreaking goal gives Mexico win over U.S. for 10th Gold Cup title

Mexico Clinches Record 10th Concacaf Gold Cup Title

In a thrilling final match on Sunday night, Mexico secured its record 10th Concacaf Gold Cup title with a 2-1 victory over the United States. The game was marked by intense competition and a controversial video review that ultimately led to the winning goal by Edson Alvarez in the 77th minute.

The U.S. took an early lead in the fourth minute with a goal from Chris Richards, who headed in a free kick from Sebastian Berhalter for the second time in the tournament. However, Mexico quickly responded with a goal from Raul Jimenez in the 27th minute, leveling the score.

The decisive moment came when Mexico was awarded a free kick after Diego Luna fouled Alexis Vega. Johan Vasquez assisted with a flick across the goal, allowing Alvarez to break past the defence and redirect the ball into the net from close range. Although the goal was initially called offside, it was ultimately awarded by the VAR, securing Mexico’s victory.

With the win, Mexico defended its title from 2023 and improved its record to 6-2 in Gold Cup finals against the U.S. Despite a late chance for the U.S. in stoppage time, Mexico’s goalkeeper Luis Malagon made a crucial block to secure the win.

U.S. Missing Regulars in Final Match

The U.S. fielded a lineup with several players who are not projected as World Cup starters, as regulars were unavailable due to vacation, injuries, and the Club World Cup. Coach Mauricio Pochettino used the final match to evaluate potential contenders for starting positions in future friendlies.

Players like Luna, Agyemang, and Freese emerged as potential candidates for the World Cup roster, showcasing their skills in the intense final against Mexico. Richards gave the U.S. an early lead with a powerful header off a free kick, while Jimenez’s goal for Mexico demonstrated his scoring prowess.

Jimenez’s celebration, where he honored his former teammate Diogo Jota who tragically passed away, added a poignant moment to the match. Mexico’s victory in front of a predominantly pro-Mexico crowd of 70,925 at NRG Stadium highlighted the team’s dominance throughout the tournament.

With the World Cup on the horizon, both Mexico and the U.S. will look to build on their performances in the Gold Cup as they prepare to co-host the prestigious event with Canada next year.