Mexico claimed a record-extending 10th CONCACAF Gold Cup title on Sunday, coming from behind to beat the United States 2-1 in Houston.
Edson Alvarez, who endured heartbreak at the same stadium during last year’s Copa America, headed the winner in the 77th minute, sealing a deserved victory after Mexico dominated large stretches of the contest.
The USA, fielding a youthful squad under Mauricio Pochettino, made an explosive start as Chris Richards nodded in Sebastian Berhalter’s free-kick in the fourth minute.
But Raul Jimenez levelled in the 27th, smashing home after Marcel Ruiz’s clever pass. Jimenez paid tribute by revealing a shirt for his late ex-teammate Diogo Jota.
The second half saw Mexico firmly on top. Alvarez’s header was initially ruled offside, but VAR reversed the decision, handing Mexico the decisive goal.
The win leaves Mexico with three more Gold Cup titles than their fierce rivals, who remain on seven.
“We’re disappointed not to come away with a win,” said U.S. captain Tim Ream. “We just missed a little bit of calmness when we won the ball.”
