Raúl Jiménez Shines in Mexico’s 2-0 Victory Over Canada

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Raúl Jiménez scored twice, lifting Mexico to a 2-0 victory over Canada in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals on March 20, 2025, at SoFi Stadium. With the win, Mexico advanced to face Panama in the final, seeking to break the host nation’s dominance in this tournament.

Jiménez, a 33-year-old striker for Fulham, netted his 36th and 37th international goals, delighting a boisterous crowd in California, where he and his teammates are often welcomed as the home side. The opening goal came just 57 seconds into the match, as Jiménez converted a fortunate rebound after a deflected attempt from Roberto Alvarado.

“We were a team today,” said forward Santiago Giménez. “We were a family, and we’re very happy to be in the final. I think this Cup, we’re coming to win it.”

The win also marked Mexico’s second consecutive victory, showing momentum after a quarterfinal defeat of Honduras in November 2024. El Tri, last year’s Gold Cup champions, have displayed a resurgence under head coach Javier Aguirre, who implemented a strategy featuring multiple offensive threats.

Canada, entering the match with a six-game unbeaten streak, struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. Despite moments of pressure, they managed only one shot on target against a disciplined Mexican defense. Their head coach, Jesse Marsch, remarked on the team’s effort and their failure to convert opportunities.

“I thought we were organized and played aggressively. We were on top during many moments,” Marsch said. However, he expressed frustration at a no-call on what he believed was a clear penalty in the first half.

Jiménez sealed the match with a stunning free kick in the 75th minute, curling the ball past Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair into the right corner of the net. This goal capped off the evening’s celebrations, with fans throwing beer in joy from the stands.

Mexico will face Panama in the final at SoFi Stadium, marking the first meeting between the two teams in this tournament. Panama won their semifinal against the United States, making this an unexpected matchup. In the earlier quarterfinals, Mexico handily defeated Honduras 4-2 on aggregate.

As El Tri celebrates their advancement to the final, they aim to claim the CONCACAF Nations League title, a trophy that has so far eluded them, with the U.S. having won the first three editions.

The match showcased the potential power of Mexico’s attacking line, with both Jiménez and Giménez combining effectively. As Giménez noted about playing alongside Jiménez, “It’s an honor. I think he’s a great striker. We have a special connection.” Mexico’s lineup proved effective, playing a 4-2-3-1 formation that utilized their strengths on the offensive front.

As for Canada, their journey leads them to face the U.S. in the bronze medal match, where both teams will look to signify their status in North American soccer.

Attendance at SoFi Stadium was reported at 50,295, with many fans rallying behind El Tri for a thrilling evening of international soccer.