Defending champions Mexico inched closer to a record 10th Gold Cup title after overcoming Saudi Arabia 2-0 in a fiercely contested quarterfinal clash on Saturday night.
The victory propels El Tri into a semifinal showdown with Honduras in Santa Clara, California.
The breakthrough came in the 49th minute when forward Alexis Vega finally broke his 19-match scoring drought in international play. A crisp pass from Raúl Jimenez created space for Vega, whose initial shot was parried by Saudi goalkeeper Nawaf Alaquidi. Vega, showing sharp instincts, netted the rebound through the keeper’s legs. Initially flagged offside, VAR overturned the decision to confirm the goal.
Mexico doubled their lead in the 81st minute thanks to an own goal by Saudi defender Abdullah Madu. A misplaced clearance off a Mateo Chavez cross redirected into the net, sealing Saudi Arabia’s fate.
The match, marked by physical play and mounting tensions, saw yellow cards exchanged just before halftime. Jesús Gallardo’s booking means he will miss the semifinal due to card accumulation.
Adding a historic touch to the night was 16-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora’s debut, making him the youngest ever to represent Mexico at the senior level.
While Saudi Arabia’s Gold Cup journey ends here, their spirited run as invited guests earned them respect. For Mexico, the focus now sharpens on reaching the final and etching their name into CONCACAF history once more.
