ISLAMABAD: Defending champions Mexico began their quest for a record-extending 10th CONCACAF Gold Cup title with a nervy 3-2 win over the Dominican Republic in a thrilling Group A opener at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, on Saturday.
Despite taking a comfortable 2-0 lead shortly before and after halftime through Edson Alvarez and Raul Jimenez, Mexico were made to sweat in the second half as the Dominicans clawed their way back into the contest, threatening an upset in front of a largely pro-Mexico crowd of over 54,000.
Mexico Take Control Early
The opening goal came in the 44th minute when Edson Alvarez rose highest to head home a corner, giving Mexico a deserved lead going into the break.
Veteran striker Raul Jimenez doubled the advantage just 30 seconds into the second half.
A perfectly weighted through ball from Santiago Gimenez allowed Jimenez to calmly slot the ball into the net, seemingly putting “El Tri” on course for a routine win.
Dominican Republic Push Back
However, the Dominican Republic — making only their second appearance at the Gold Cup — responded in style.
Peter Gonzalez made history for his country by scoring their first-ever Gold Cup goal in the 51st minute, a brilliant solo effort that beat the Mexican defence.
But the joy was short-lived as defender Cesar Montes restored Mexico’s two-goal cushion just two minutes later, making it 3-1 with a clinical finish from close range.
The game refused to settle, and in the 67th minute, Edison Azcona’s deflected effort brought the Dominicans back within one goal, triggering a nervy final stretch for Mexico.
Despite late pressure, Mexico managed to hold on and secure all three points, starting their title defence on a winning note.
The result puts Mexico atop Group A, with work to do in tightening their defensive structure ahead of tougher opponents in the coming matches.
