On a night in which Raúl Jiménez became a true hero, the Mexican National Team secured its place in the final of the CONCACAF Nations League with a 2-0 victory over Canada, in a match played at the impressive SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
With this victory, El Tri will face Panama in the final on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
The night of Raúl Jiménez
Mexican striker Raúl Jiménez, currently playing for Fulham FC in the Premier League, was the star of the match, scoring the two goals that gave the Mexican national team a place in the final.
The first of these came in lightning fashion, barely one minute in, making it the fastest goal of the tournament so far.
Taking advantage of a Canadian defensive error, Jiménez broke into the penalty area and struck a shot that left goalkeeper Milan Borjan with no chance.
The 33-year-old’s second goal came in the 75th minute, when he received a precise pass from the right flank and, after controlling the ball with great skill, scored with a powerful cross-shot.
The goal sparked the euphoria of the fans who packed the stadium, most of them Mexican, who chanted and waved their flags.
A physical and strategic duel
The match was a reflection of the intensity and rivalry between the two teams.
Both Mexico and Canada opted for a defensive approach in the first few minutes, which resulted in a rough game full of clashes in the midfield.
During the first half, up to five yellow cards were shown, reflecting the harshness with which both teams fought for control of the ball.
However, as the game progressed, Canada began to take more of the lead in attack.
The Canadians put strong pressure on Luis Malagón’s goal, especially with dangerous shots from Cyle Larín and Moïse Bombito, who tried to pierce the solid Mexican defense without success.
Strategy of Javier ‘el Vasco’ Aguirre
The national coach, Javier ‘el Vasco’ Aguirre, opted for a balanced lineup that prioritized midfield control and quick counterattacks.
The incorporation of young players such as Kevin Álvarez and Erick Sánchez allowed for dynamism and freshness in the attack, complementing the experience of Jiménez and other veterans.
The goal of tranquility came in the 75th minute, when a quick counterattack left Jiménez in a favorable position to shoot into the goal.
The striker’s celebration was effusive, aware that this goal secured his place in the final.
It was a very close match. The score may not reflect the difference, but I think Canada pushed us, pushed us to the limit, like last time, and put pressure on us
Javier Aguirre
The final at SoFi Stadium
With the victory after Mexico vs Canada, El Tri now prepares to face Panama in the CONCACAF Nations League final on Sunday, March 23.
The final will be held at the same SoFi Stadium, a 70,000-capacity venue, which is sure to be dressed in green, white and red.
Panama has just beaten the United States 0-1, in a match that was decided in the 94th minute with an agonizing goal by Cecilio Waterman.
On the other hand, the match for third place will be played between the United States and Canada, a duel that promises to be equally intense given the pride that both teams will be seeking to vindicate after their respective defeats.
Expectation and passion to the fullest
Buzzy
Mexican fans are more than excited about the possibility of seeing their national team win the CONCACAF Nations League.
For many, this final also represents an opportunity to show that Mexico is still the giant of the region, especially after recent ups and downs in international tournaments.
SoFi Stadium, one of the most modern stadiums in the United States, will be the epicenter of a soccer party that promises thrills and excitement.
Fans are already preparing to fill the venue and support the team with the same passion that characterizes them.
Panama, a final in which El Tri will seek to reaffirm its dominance in the region and give its people a new title that will strengthen confidence in the process led by Javier Aguirre.
Will Raúl Jiménez be the hero again? The answer will be known this Sunday.
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