Gold Cup

Edson Alvarez leads Mexico past the USA to win the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup (1-2): Highlights and goals

Mexico earned a commanding 2-1 win over the United States in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final, with Raul Jimenez and Edson Alvarez providing the key goals. Mexico dominated possession and controlled the tempo for most of the match, capping off a strong tournament with a well-deserved victory. Watch highlights and goals here.

Updated on July 07, 2025 09:46AM EDT

**© Omar Vega**Edson Álvarez #4 of the Mexico walks across the field in the second half during the finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2025 between the United States and Mexico at NRG Stadium

Edson Alvarez starred as Mexico secured a 2-1 victory over the United States in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final. After an early goal from the USA’s Chris Richards, Mexico responded quickly, with Raul Jimenez leveling the score before Alvarez’s decisive header put Mexico ahead. With this win, Mexico crowned themselves as champions of the competition once again, adding another chapter to their tournament dominance.

From the opening whistle, Mexico asserted their dominance with strong possession and fluid attacking play, particularly down the left flank. Alexis Vega and Carlos Mora consistently created dangerous chances, forcing the USA defense into difficult situations. Despite the early setback, the USA fought hard, with Malik Tillman and Diego Luna trying to spark counterattacks and regain momentum.

The match was physical and intense, with both teams committing numerous fouls as they battled for control in midfield. Tyler Adams received a yellow card for a hard challenge on Edson Alvarez, underscoring the fierce competitiveness of the final. The referee allowed play to flow for the most part, contributing to a fast-paced and entertaining contest.

In the final stages, Mexico’s superior control and fresh legs from substitutions helped them maintain their lead and manage the game effectively. The USA came close to equalizing late through Patrick Agyemang but were ultimately unable to break down Mexico’s resolute defense. Mexico’s victory adds a tenth Gold Cup title to their history and cements their status as the region’s powerhouse.

09:20PM

Thanks for joining us!

Mexico defeats the United States 2-1 to claim the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup title, and you lived every moment of this exciting game here, on Bolavip.

Thanks for staying with us—see you next time!

09:05PM

90' - full time: Mexico are Gold Cup champions! (1-2)

The final whistle sounds at NRG Stadium — Mexico defeat the USA 3-1 to claim the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup title!

Goals from Raul Jimenez and Edson Alvarez turned the match around after an early opener from Chris Richards. Mexico controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and outclassed the USA in key moments to secure their 10th Gold Cup crown.

A dominant performance from El Tri, who once again rise as the kings of Concacaf.

08:59PM

90+2' - Huge miss for the USA in the final minutes (1-2)

Patrick Agyemang had the chance to bring the USA back into it, but his finish just missed the mark in a tense late moment. The USA are throwing everything forward in search of a miracle equalizer as time runs out at NRG Stadium.

08:55PM

88' - Changes for both sides (1-2)

Both teams go to their benches with a wave of substitutions.

For Mexico, Jorge Sanchez, Raul Jimenez, and Roberto Alvarado come off, replaced by Israel Reyes, Santiago Gimenez, and Cesar Huerta — a move that refreshes both the back line and the attack.

Meanwhile, the USA respond with two changes of their own: Max Arfsten and Diego Luna exit, making way for John Tolkin and Brenden Aaronson as they try to rally in the final stretch.

08:50PM

83' - Second substitution for the USA (1-2)

Tyler Adams makes way for Jack McGlynn as the USA look to reshape their midfield and spark a late push. Adams exits after a physical shift that included a yellow card, while McGlynn brings fresh legs and vision in the closing stages.

08:45PM

77' - Goooaal for Mexico! (1-2)

Edson Alvarez heads home a free kick delivered by Johan Vasquez to put Mexico ahead. The goal was initially ruled out but, after a VAR review, it was confirmed as valid.

Mexico now lead 2-1 in this pulsating Gold Cup final.

08:44PM

75' - First substitution for Mexico (1-1)

Mexico make their first change as Orbelin Pineda comes on for Gilberto Mora. The switch raises some eyebrows since Mora had been one of Mexico’s standout performers up to this point, but Pineda brings fresh legs and creativity in midfield as they push for a winner.

08:41PM

74' - The USA regain brief spell of control (1-1)

For roughly five minutes, the USA enjoy their most dominant stretch of possession all match, pressing forward and trying to seize momentum. It’s a crucial window as they look to turn the tide and create opportunities against a typically controlling Mexican side.

08:36PM

69' - First substitutions of the match: USA make a change (1-1)

Luca de la Torre comes off, replaced by Damion Downs as the USA look to freshen up their midfield and inject new energy in the second half of this tight Gold Cup final.

08:31PM

64' - First booking for the USA (1-1)

Tyler Adams becomes the first American player shown a yellow card after a hard tackle on Edson Alvarez in midfield. It's the second booking of the match overall, as the physical nature of this final continues to intensify.

08:27PM

60' - Mexico’s creators keep the pressure on (1-1)

Mexico continue to dictate the flow of the match, and every time Alexis Vega, Carlos Mora, or Marcel Ruiz get on the ball, danger follows. The trio have been at the heart of Mexico’s most threatening moves, consistently carving out clear scoring chances.

08:22PM

54' - The USA respond with a close chance from Arfsten (1-1)

After a long spell without threatening, the USA create a quality chance through Max Arfsten, who cuts in and fires a shot just over the crossbar. It’s their first real look in some time — a reminder that they can still strike if given space.

08:17PM

50' - Mexico pick up right where they left off (1-1)

Mexico start the second half with the same energy and control they showed before the break. They continue to press high, dominate possession, and push forward in search of a second goal. The USA are under pressure once again as Mexico look to tilt the scoreboard in their favor.

08:12PM

45' - Second half is underway! (1-1)

The final 45 minutes begin at NRG Stadium with everything still to play for. The USA and Mexico return to the pitch locked at 1-1 after a high-intensity first half. Expect more physical battles, tactical shifts, and no shortage of drama as the 2025 Gold Cup title hangs in the balance.

07:55PM

45' - Halftime at NRG Stadium (1-1)

A thrilling first half comes to a close with the score tied 1-1 between the USA and Mexico. Chris Richards opened the scoring early with a towering header off a set piece, but Mexico responded through Raul Jimenez after a brilliant through ball from Marcel Ruiz.

Mexico dominated large stretches of the half, controlling possession and creating multiple chances — including five corner kicks — while the USA defended with resilience and looked to strike on the counter.

Plenty still to play for as we head into the final 45 minutes of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final.

07:52PM

43' - Mexico reassert full control with wave after wave of possession (1-1)

After briefly conceding the ball, Mexico have taken complete control once again. They’re moving the ball fluidly from side to side, dictating the tempo and stretching the USA defense. With five corner kicks already in the match, their sustained pressure is starting to look relentless.

07:52PM

44' - First yellow card of the match (1-1)

Cesar Montes goes into the book after a heavy challenge on Patrick Agyemang near the left sideline. It’s a strong tackle that the referee deems too aggressive, earning Montes the first yellow card of this Gold Cup final.

07:48PM

39' - USA regain some rhythm as Mexico ease off (1-1)

After a long stretch without a shot, the USA finally create a look at goal — their first since Chris Richards scored early. Mexico have slightly dropped their intensity, and Malik Tillman is beginning to take more control in midfield as the Americans try to settle into possession.

07:43PM

34' - Mexico takes control after equalizer (1-1)

After Raul Jimenez’s goal, Mexico has grown increasingly dominant, controlling 67% of possession to the USA’s 32%. They continue to create scoring chances, frequently sending dangerous crosses into the box. The left side remains their main avenue of attack.

07:38PM

Jiménez pays tribute to Jota after goal

Raúl Jiménez honored the memory of Jota with his goal celebration, a heartfelt and emotional moment that resonated deeply with fans and players alike. Despite the tragedy, Jota remains firmly in everyone’s thoughts as this intense final unfolds.

07:37PM

27' - Goooaaal for mexico! (1-1)

A brilliant collective move from Mexico sees Marcel Ruiz thread a perfectly timed pass through the defense to Raúl Jiménez, who finishes with a lethal strike to level the game!

The score is now tied 1-1 in this thrilling Gold Cup final at NRG Stadium.

07:32PM

24' - Mexico targets left flank through Vega (1-0)

Alexis Vega is actively pushing down Mexico’s left side, creating pressure and earning two corner kicks in quick succession.

Despite the opportunities from set pieces, Mexico have yet to capitalize, with the USA defense standing firm and clearing both corners effectively.

07:27PM

19' - Mexico puts pressure on USA defense (1-0)

Mexico ramp up the intensity, constantly testing the USA back line with creative plays from Carlos Mora and Alexis Vega. They’re probing for openings and creating solid chances.

The match remains extremely physical, with plenty of close contact. Despite the tough challenges, referee Mario Escobar is allowing the game to flow without frequent stoppages.

07:22PM

13' - Mexico respond with attacking intent (1-0)

Mexico begin to find their footing as they push forward through Mario Escobar, Carlos Mora, and Edson Álvarez, generating their first real moments of danger.

Despite Mexico’s growing presence, the USA look composed and energized after the early breakthrough. That Richards goal has clearly boosted their belief as they hold firm in defense.

07:18PM

9' - Game turns physical and fragmented (1-0)

Mexico push for a response, but the match becomes bogged down with fouls and aerial duels. The ball rarely stays on the ground as both sides battle for control.

07:13PM

4' - GOOOOAAAL for the USA! (1-0)

Right after the foul by César Montes on Agyemang, the USA make Mexico pay. Off the ensuing free kick, Chris Richards rises above the defense and powers a header past Luis Malagón to open the scoring!

It’s a dream start for the USA, who now lead 1-0 in the Gold Cup final!

07:12PM

3' - First foul of the match (0-0)

César Montes brings down Patrick Agyemang near midfield as the USA tried to break forward. A clear physical challenge to stop the striker’s momentum, and the referee doesn’t hesitate to whistle it. Early intensity from Mexico’s back line.

07:08PM

0' - Kickoff in Houston! (0-0)

The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final between the USA and Mexico is officially underway at NRG Stadium. Both sides are feeling each other out in the opening moments.

07:00PM

The teams have taken the field, and the national anthems are underway!

A charged atmosphere at NRG Stadium as the USA and Mexico prepare for kickoff in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final. The energy is electric with fans from both sides filling the stadium with color, sound, and anticipation.

06:45PM

Head-to-head dominance and Gold Cup history

El Tri hold a 37-24-17 all-time record over the USA in international play. The two sides have faced off eight times in Gold Cup history — seven of those meetings coming in the final. The USA won the most recent final between them in 2021, when Miles Robinson scored an extra-time winner. However, Mexico have the edge historically, winning five of the seven Gold Cup finals played between the rivals. The USA’s other victory came in the 2007 final.

Mexico lead all nations with nine Gold Cup titles, while The USA aim to lift their eighth. The two sides have defined the competition for decades — only one of the 18 previous finals did not include at least one of them.

06:25PM

Tonight’s venue

NRG Stadium, located in Houston, Texas, is a multi-purpose venue that opened in 2002 at a construction cost of $352 million. With a seating capacity of 72,220, it was the first stadium in NFL history to feature a retractable roof. It serves as the home of the Houston Texans and regularly hosts major sporting events, including international soccer matches like tonight’s Gold Cup final between the USA and Mexico.

Here's how it looks:

A general view before the finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2025 between the United States and Mexico at NRG Stadium on July 06, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

06:05PM

Mexico's confirmed lineup

Here's Mexico's starting lineup for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final against the USA

06:00PM

The USA's starting lineup

The confirmed lineups are in!

Here's the USA's starting lineup for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final against Mexico

05:40PM

Tonight’s referees

Guatemalan official Mario Escobar has been appointed to referee tonight’s 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final between the USA and Mexico at NRG Stadium in Houston.

This will mark the second time Escobar has officiated a match involving Javier Aguirre’s side in this tournament. He previously took charge of Mexico’s scoreless draw against Costa Rica in the group stage — a match remembered for a controversial moment when Escobar disallowed a would-be game-winning goal by Santiago Giménez.

Here is the rest of the officiating crew for tonight’s final:

Assistant Referee 1: Luis Aroldo Ventura Chacón
Assistant Referee 2: Humberto Noel Panjoj Chitay
Fourth Official (VAR): Walter Alexander López Castellanos

05:20PM

Kick off time and how to watch

USA vs Mexico will get underway at 7:00 PM ET (PT: 4:00 PM.)

Watch this clash between the USA and Mexico live in the USA on Fubo, FOX, Univision, TUDN, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue and ViX.

05:00PM

USA and Mexico clash in 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final

Welcome to our live blog of the Concacaf Gold Cup final!

The USA face off against Mexico in a match that promises plenty of excitement, with both teams coming into the contest hungry and determined to challenge for for being champions.

Stay with us for key information and fun facts in the preview before we bring you minute-by-minute updates throughout the game!

Emilio Abad

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