México – Honduras: Raúl Jiménez Goal Sends Mexico to Gold Cup Final
On July 2, 2025, Mexico advanced to its 12th CONCACAF Gold Cup final by defeating Honduras 1–0 in a tightly contested semifinal at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The only goal came in the 50th minute, scored by veteran striker Raúl Jiménez, who met a precise assist from 16‑year‑old debutant Gilberto Mora. Mora collected a deep pass from Alexis Vega, slid it into Jiménez’s path, and he finished clinically past Honduras goalkeeper Edrick Menjívar.
Earlier in the match, Honduras had an early opportunity when Anthony Lozano narrowly missed from outside the box in the 6th minute. Mexico responded with a few chances late in the first half—Johan Vásquez nearly scoring in the 37th, and Marcel Ruíz’s effort was saved by Menjívar in the 42nd. Mexico’s build-up control emphasized possession and patience. Post-goal, Mexico managed the tempo effectively. Goalkeeper Luis Malagón helped preserve a clean sheet—his fourth of the tournament—by making key saves and organizing the defense to repel Honduras’s increased attacking pressure.
With this result, Mexico sets up a final duel against the United States, scheduled for July 6 at NRG Stadium in Houston. This will mark the eighth Gold Cup final meeting between these regional rivals. Historically, Mexico leads the head‑to‑head Gold Cup finals 5–2. Honduras exited the tournament with praise for reaching the semifinals for the first time since 2013 and showing resilience after a tough 6–0 group-stage loss to Canada. Despite being underdogs, they advanced past Panama before falling to Mexico in a narrow match determined by a moment of experience .
Mexico’s blend of veteran leadership and emerging youth was on display. Jiménez, already a veteran with 42 international goals, delivered under pressure. Meanwhile, Mora’s assist emphasized Mexico’s developing talent pool rising quickly on the international stage .
Led by coach Gerardo Martino, El Tri has regained momentum following concerns over earlier tournament results. Mexico’s tactical discipline, ability to control midfield space, and defensive solidity underline their championship credentials heading into the final . The victory also revived regional expectations: Mexico aims to claim its 10th Gold Cup title, while the United States seeks its eighth. Fans and analysts eagerly anticipate Sunday’s final, billed as a classic rivalry match between two continental powerhouses.
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