Alexis Vega ended his 19-match international goal drought as defending champions Mexico defeated Saudi Arabia 2-0 in the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals on Saturday night.
With the win, Mexico secured a spot in the semifinals, where they will face Honduras on Wednesday in Santa Clara, California. Honduras advanced earlier in the day after edging Panama in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Vega, 27, scored Mexico’s opening goal in the 49th minute. After a well-placed pass from Raúl Jimenez, Vega found space to shoot. His initial attempt was stopped by Saudi goalkeeper Nawaf Alaquidi, but Vega quickly reacted, collecting the rebound and slotting the ball through Alaquidi's legs to give Mexico the lead.
Although Vega was initially flagged offside, a video review confirmed the goal, putting Mexico ahead 1-0. The goal marked Vega's first for the national team since 2022, while also ending Mexico’s scoring drought of 166 minutes, following a scoreless draw against Costa Rica in their final group-stage match.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre praised the team’s performance, particularly in the second half. “It was an A-plus,” Aguirre said. “We’re heading in the right direction going into the semifinals.”
Mexico extended their lead in the 81st minute with an own goal from Saudi defender Abdullah Madu. Mateo Chavez delivered a cross intended for Roberto Alvarado, who missed the ball, but it deflected off Madu and into the net, securing a 2-0 victory for El Tri.
Saudi Arabia managed to frustrate Mexico for much of the first half with a physical, defensive display. Tensions flared just before halftime, as Saudi Arabia's Ali Majrashi and Mexico's Jesús Gallardo exchanged shoves and both received yellow cards.
Gallardo will miss the semifinal against Honduras due to accumulation of yellow cards in the tournament.
Sixteen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora made his international debut for Mexico, playing 72 minutes and impressing with his performance. Mora is now the youngest player ever to feature for the Mexican national team.
“He doesn’t have any limits right now,” Aguirre said. “He has room to grow … and is eager to learn.”
Mexico has now reached the knockout stage of the Gold Cup for the 18th consecutive time. Saudi Arabia, participating in their first Gold Cup as an invited team, advanced to the quarterfinals after a win over Haiti, a loss to the United States, and a draw with Trinidad and Tobago.
El Tri is now two wins away from a record 10th Gold Cup title. The United States has won the tournament seven times, while Canada has claimed the title once.
Saudi Arabia has never defeated Mexico in international competition, with six losses and one draw to date.