FanSided World Football
·21. März 2025
Mexico reach CONCACAF Nations League final

FanSided World Football
·21. März 2025
Mexico recorded a 2-0 win to beat Canada in the semifinal of the CONCACAF Nations League.
Much talk prior to kick-off was about who Javier Aguirre would choose to lead the line. Mexico is blessed with two talented options in the position, being able to pick between Fulham's Raúl Jiménez and AC Milan's latest signing, Santiago Giménez.
With the decision to start the two together, Aguirre restructured the side as Toluca's Alexis Vega got the nod to sit behind the pair in the number 10 position.
Edson Álvarez dropped into back four, joining Johan Vásquez whilst Luis Romo and Luis Chávez were benched in favour of Roberto Alvarado and Charly Rodríguez.
Canada v Mexico - CONCACAF Nations League: Semifinal | Kevork Djansezian/GettyImages
Raúl Jimenez opened the scoring within 45 seconds. After some good fortune from a Giménez effort on goal, the deflections fell perfectly for the Premier League forward to place the ball beyond Dayne St. Clair.
El Trí had the ball in the net for a second time on the half hour mark when Álvarez headed home from an Alvarado free kick, but the linesman deemed that the Mexican captain was offside.
Canada came knocking but ultimately unable to cause significant issues for Luis Malagón in the Mexico goal.
Mexico's second goal came courtesy of the Fulham forward, who has been in outstanding form this season with 10 Premier League goals. He showcased his talent once again with a stunning free kick, reminiscent of the one he netted during a friendly against the United States in October.
As the full-time whistle blew, Mexico secured passage to the final of the CONCACAF Nations League, something that they lost last year to the United States.
This time around, they will face Panama in the final, who caused a shock result against the reigning champions thanks to a 94' minute strike from Cecilio Waterman.
The game will take place at the SoFi Stadium, California, same as both semifinals.
Javier Aguirre's side will be heavily favoured to come out on top, having won all of the last four meetings, including a 3-0 win in this competiton last year.