Raúl Jiménez Fires Mexico to Nations League Final in Electrifying Showdown Against Canada

In a night of high stakes and roaring fans, Raúl Jiménez delivered a masterclass performance, netting twice to propel Mexico past Canada in a thrilling 2-0 victory. The win secures El Tri’s spot in the Concacaf Nations League final, where they will battle Panama for a chance to dethrone the U.S. as the tournament’s first-ever non-American champion.

Jiménez Strikes in the Blink of an Eye

SoFi Stadium, draped in green and echoing with passionate chants, witnessed a lightning start as Jiménez struck within the opening minute. A deflected shot from Roberto Alvarado fortuitously landed at his feet, and the Fulham striker wasted no time, smashing it home to ignite a fiesta in the stands.

Canada Fails to Capitalize, Jiménez Delivers the Final Blow

Canada, riding a six-match unbeaten run, looked poised to test Mexico but squandered key chances. Their hopes faded when Jiménez sealed the deal in the 75th minute with a breathtaking free kick. Following a foul on AC Milan’s Santi Giménez just outside the box, Jiménez curled a majestic strike over the wall and past Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, sending beer cups and emotions flying through the night air.

Panama Awaits, U.S. Faces Rock Bottom?

Mexico’s march to the final marks their resurgence, having now won back-to-back games for the first time since their 2023 Gold Cup triumph—where they edged Panama 1-0 at the very same venue. With the Americans shockingly eliminated by Panama earlier, Sunday’s final could be a historic moment for Concacaf, signaling a shift in dominance away from the U.S.

Meanwhile, Canada will now face a bruised and battered U.S. squad in a third-place match that feels more like a battle for redemption than a consolation prize. Will the Americans crumble further, or can they salvage pride?

One thing is certain: the balance of power in Concacaf is shifting, and Mexico is ready to reclaim its throne.