Mexico Claims 10th Gold Cup Title with 2-1 Victory Over the United States

HOUSTON — Mexico secured a record 10th CONCACAF Gold Cup title on Sunday night, defeating the United States 2-1. The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when Edson Álvarez scored a tiebreaking goal after a video review overturned an initial offside call. Chris Richards had put the U.S. in the lead just four minutes into the match, scoring with a header from a Sebastian Berhalter free kick. However, Raúl Jiménez equalized in the 27th minute, marking his third goal in this Gold Cup.

The free kick that led to Mexico’s winning goal resulted from a foul committed by Diego Luna on Alexis Vega. Johan Vásquez flicked the restart into the box, and Álvarez dashed past the defense to redirect the ball from close range just inside the far post. The referee’s on-field offside decision was overturned after review, allowing Mexico to reclaim the title they won in 2023, improving their all-time record against the U.S. in Gold Cup finals to 6-2. While the U.S. had a late opportunity with Patrick Agyemang’s shot blocked by goalkeeper Luis Malagón, Mexico controlled the match for the most part, holding 60% possession and earning 12 corner kicks compared to none for the Americans.

The sellout crowd at NRG Stadium, largely pro-Mexico, booed U.S. players during warmups. This match was notable as it was the last competitive game for both teams before co-hosting next year’s World Cup with Canada. The U.S. team featured a lineup with a number of players absent due to vacation, injuries, and the Club World Cup. Coach Mauricio Pochettino took the opportunity to evaluate players who may compete for starting positions in upcoming friendlies.

Richards’ opening goal was achieved when he headed Berhalter’s free kick, striking the crossbar and bouncing just over the goal line. Jiménez later scored his 42nd international goal, coming from a pass by Marcel Ruiz. His celebration included honoring his late teammate, Diogo Jota, by donning a jersey with the name “DIOGO J” and mimicking a video game pose.