MEXICO Wins CONCACAF NATIONS LEAGUE TITLE

Mexico secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Panama in the CONCACAF Nations League final, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty from Raul Jimenez. The win marked Mexico’s first CONCACAF Nations League title.

Jimenez, who also scored in the semi-final win over Canada, opened the scoring in the eighth minute with a clever header. Panama equalized in the 54th minute through Adalberto Carrasquilla’s penalty, after Johan Vasquez fouled Cecilio Waterman in the box.

The match was halted in the 83rd minute due to homophobic chanting from Mexican fans, but Mexico regrouped and pushed for the winner. Their efforts paid off in stoppage time when Jose Cordoba conceded a penalty, which Jimenez calmly converted.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre praised his team’s performance, saying, “We played with a lot of heart and dedication.” Jimenez, who has made a remarkable comeback from a life-threatening skull fracture in 2020, dedicated the win to his teammates and coaching staff.

Panama, who stunned the United States 1-0 in the semi-finals, were left heartbroken. Despite their valiant effort, they were unable to secure their first international tournament title since 1951.

The CONCACAF Nations League final was a thrilling encounter, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Mexico’s victory marked a triumphant end to their campaign, and they will look to build on this momentum in future competitions.