Mexico march to semifinals with win over Saudi Arabia in CONCACAF Gold Cup 2025

Mexico defeated Saudi Arabia in the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals on Saturday in Glendale, Arizona, advancing to face Honduras in the semifinals. Alexis Vega’s strike just after the break and an own goal by Abdullah Madu secured the 2-0 victory.

The breakthrough came early in the second half when Vega, ending a 19-match international goal drought, scored in the 49th minute. Fulham’s Raul Jimenez delivered a precise through ball, allowing Vega to sprint into the box.

Although Saudi goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aqidi blocked Vega’s initial shot, the Toluca striker quickly capitalised on the rebound, slotting the ball through Al Aqidi’s legs. Initially flagged offside, the goal was upheld after a review, giving the 12-time champions a 1-0 lead.

Saudi Arabia, making their Gold Cup debut as a guest, held firm in a physical first half, keeping Mexico scoreless. Ali Majrashi’s overhead clearance thwarted a dangerous move by Roberto Alvarado, while Vega missed a chance from a cross by 16-year-old Gilberto Mora, who became Mexico’s youngest-ever player in his international debut.

Tensions flared before halftime, with Majrashi and Mexico’s Jesús Gallardo earning yellow cards after a shoving incident. Gallardo’s booking means he’ll miss the semifinal due to accumulated cautions.

Mexico sealed the win in the 81st minute with an own goal by Saudi defender Abdullah Madu. A cross from Matteo Chavez deflected off Madu, bypassing Alvarado and rolling into the net, extinguishing Saudi Arabia’s hopes of a comeback. Despite their resilience, the debutants couldn’t overcome Mexico’s pressure, exiting their first Gold Cup after a group stage that included a win over Haiti, a loss to the US, and a draw with Trinidad and Tobago.

Saudi Arabia, winless in seven matches against Mexico, couldn’t break their streak.