Mexico Top Group A Despite Late Drama and Goalless Draw Against Costa Rica
Mexico and Costa Rica met at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for their final Group A match of the 2025 Gold Cup. With both teams already qualified for the quarterfinals, the stakes were high not for survival but for positioning. The winner of the match would top the group and potentially secure a more favorable draw in the next round. The match ended in a dramatic 0-0 draw, with Mexico finishing first in the group on superior goal difference.
From the opening whistle, Mexico looked like the team with more urgency and purpose. Within the first three minutes, two Costa Rican players found themselves in the referee’s book after reckless tackles. Mexico wasted no time asserting control, creating two quick opportunities one flew wide while the other forced veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas into action.
Throughout the first half, El Tri dominated the ball. Marcel Ruiz and Alexis Vega stood out in midfield, orchestrating slick passing sequences that often carved open Costa Rica’s defense. However, the finishing touch eluded Mexico, despite several chances. The best came in the 23rd minute when Navas denied Raul Jimenez twice first from a close-range header and then with a brilliant save on a volley from outside the box.
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Despite being outplayed for the opening 25 minutes, Costa Rica nearly snatched a goal against the run of play. Defensive lapses from Cesar Montes and Jorge Sanchez opened the door for counter-attacks, but Mexico’s backline scrambled well to keep Manfred Ugalde and company at bay. As the half wore on, Costa Rica grew into the game, ending the first half with more possession and confidence but still without a goal.
The second half resumed with Mexico continuing to probe. Raul Jimenez missed a golden opportunity in the 55th minute, sending a free header wide from just yards out. Alonso Martinez almost made Mexico pay minutes later when he cracked a shot off the frame of the goal, giving Mexican supporters a real scare.
The match grew increasingly physical with several minor altercations and heated exchanges between players. Mexico’s midfield architect Marcel Ruiz, one of their best on the night, was substituted in the 74th minute, signaling a shift in Mexico’s rhythm. Costa Rica held firm and looked to capitalize on the break but lacked the cutting edge to trouble Mexico. Meanwhile, Mexico found little success in the final third despite their dominance in possession.
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The game appeared to be headed for a quiet end until stoppage time drama. In the 94th minute, substitute Santi Gimenez produced a moment of brilliance, latching onto a failed clearance and acrobatically sending a scissors-kick effort into the back of the net. The crowd erupted, but the celebrations were short-lived as VAR intervened. The goal was ruled out for offside, leaving Mexican fans visibly frustrated.
Ultimately, the match ended goalless. Both teams advance to the quarterfinals with seven points apiece, but Mexico claim the top spot in Group A thanks to a superior goal difference. While the scoreline may suggest a drab affair, the late drama and tactical undercurrents made for a fascinating encounter. Mexico will hope to improve their attacking efficiency as they continue their quest to retain the Gold Cup title.
By: Jahvon Barrett / @jahvonbarrett
Featured Image: @GabFoligno / Joe Allison / Getty Images