Edson Álvarez scored a decisive goal in the 77th minute after a video review overturned an offside decision, as Mexico defeated the United States 2-1 on Sunday to claim a record-extending 10th CONCACAF Gold Cup title.
The US took an early lead in the fourth minute when Chris Richards headed in a Sebastian Berhalter free kick, marking his second goal of the tournament. But Mexico responded in the 27th minute through Raúl Jiménez, who netted his third goal of this year’s Gold Cup.
Mexico was awarded a free kick after Diego Luna fouled Alexis Vega on the flank. Johan Vásquez flicked the restart across the goalmouth, allowing Álvarez to break past the US defense and redirect the ball from three yards inside goalkeeper Matt Freese’s far post.
Though the play was initially flagged for offside, the goal was awarded following a VAR review. With the win, Mexico successfully defended its Gold Cup title from 2023 and improved its record to six victories and two losses in finals against the United States.
In stoppage time, Patrick Agyemang had a chance to equalize for the US, but his close-range effort lacked power and was blocked by Mexican goalkeeper Luis Malagón.
“We’re disappointed obviously to not come away with a win,” said US captain Tim Ream.
The match was played before a sellout crowd of 70,925 at NRG Stadium, with roughly 70% of spectators supporting Mexico. The Mexican side dominated possession with 60% and earned 12 corner kicks, while the Americans failed to register any.
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This final marked the last competitive fixture for both teams ahead of co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Canada.
The United States, seven-time Gold Cup champions but without a title since 2021, fielded a largely experimental squad. Many regular starters were unavailable due to vacation, injuries, or Club World Cup commitments.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino used the tournament to assess players who could push for World Cup roster spots during upcoming friendlies. Among the standouts were Luna, Agyemang, and Freese.
Richards opened the scoring when he headed Berhalter’s free kick from approximately 40 yards. The ball struck the crossbar, bounced down, and narrowly crossed the goal line.
Jiménez equalized for Mexico with his 42nd international goal, placing him third on the all-time scoring list for his country. He latched onto a pass from Marcel Ruiz, burst past the defense, and finished with a low shot from about 10 yards, possibly deflecting off Ream.
Jiménez celebrated by holding up a Mexico jersey with “DIOGO J” on the back, honoring his former Wolverhampton teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash Thursday in Spain. He sat by the corner flag, displayed the jersey, and mimicked playing a video game in tribute.