Mexico defeats the U.S. and wins the 2025 Gold Cup: Alvarez, key figure

The United States men’s national team fell 2-1 to Mexico in the 2025 Gold Cup final, a result that gives their rival the two-time championship. The match, played in a packed NRG Stadium, saw Mexico secure the victory thanks to a goal by Edson Álvarez. The match, with a predominantly Mexican fanbase, began with the United States taking the lead thanks to a goal by Chris Richards in the fourth minute, following a cross from Sebastian Berhalter. Mexico responded by increasing its offensive pressure, achieving a tie with a powerful shot by Raúl Jiménez in the 27th minute. Despite the impetus of “El Tri”, the United States was close to regaining the lead with a header by Alex Freeman, which was saved by the Mexican goalkeeper Ángel Malagón before halftime. In the second half, United States coach Mauricio Pochettino introduced Damion Downs in the 69th minute to reinforce the attack. However, it was Mexico who took the victory with Álvarez’s goal in the 78th minute, securing their tenth Gold Cup title.

Key takeaways after the USMNT defeat

After the defeat of the United States, which presented an alternative team without some key figures, we analyze three highlights:

1. Unclear possessions prevent Pochettino’s first title

In the center of the field, the American players had difficulty connecting precise passes or were overwhelmed by Mexico’s pressure. These errors allowed Mexico to recover the ball and keep the Americans at bay, leading to Jiménez’s equalizer and Álvarez’s goal.

With the initial advantage, most coaches would opt to reduce risks in possession and look for quick passes. Downs’ entry attempted a different approach, although with only three shots in the last 45 minutes. Mexico took advantage to recover the ball in dangerous areas, creating the opportunities that led to their victory.

2. Álvarez leads Mexico to their tenth Gold Cup title

A special recognition to Edson Álvarez. The West Ham midfielder, a starter in all of Mexico’s Gold Cup matches, led the team and performed in defense when necessary. Although his defensive work often goes unnoticed, Álvarez was fundamental. His goal, after a VAR review, secured the victory, adding two goals and an assist in the tournament. Álvarez closed the tournament with a goal that secured the title for Mexico.

3. The USMNT falls again in the Gold Cup final against its Mexican rival

The rivalry between the United States and Mexico is not as one-sided as in the 20th century. However, the Gold Cup tells a different story. This was the eighth time that both teams faced each other in the tournament final, with Mexico winning six of those matches, while the United States has only won two. Pochettino’s team, with an alternative squad, did not have figures like Christian Pulisic, Sergiño Dest, Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie, among others. Despite this, Mexico took the title, further consolidating its dominance over its rival.