Jimenez fires Mexico into Gold Cup final showdown with USA

CALIFORNIA: Mexico booked their place in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final with a narrow 1-0 victory over Honduras at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on Wednesday, thanks to a second-half strike from veteran striker Raul Jimenez.

Despite dominating possession, Mexico struggled to break down a resolute Honduran defense in the first half. The breakthrough came in the 50th minute when 16-year-old Gilberto Mora, making headlines for his composure, slipped a precise pass through to Jimenez, who smashed an unstoppable shot past Edrick Menjivar.

Edson Alvarez thought he had added a second moments later, only to see his goal ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review.

The win sets up a mouth-watering final between traditional rivals Mexico and the United States, who edged Guatemala 2-1 in the first semi-final. Mexico will now look to secure a record-extending 10th Gold Cup title, while the U.S. aim for their eighth.