euphoria reignited.
“aguirre ignites el tri”
sunday, march 23, 2025
México’s path from trials to triumph in this year’s Nations League Cup can be summarized in one word: resilience. Considering how many had written them off before the tournament began, their mid-cup turnaround and ultimate victory felt like a true Cinderella story.
Following the first leg in November — a disappointing, goalless loss to Honduras — it seemed México’s path forward would be an uphill battle. However, that fear was short-lived. When the teams clashed again later that month, Henry Martín’s brace powered a commanding 4–0 victory. That win sent them to the semifinals, where Raúl Jiménez would go on to steal the show.
While not necessarily the outright favorite, Canada posed a much tougher challenge for México — especially with many predicting a Canada vs. USA final, given the Americans’ home-field advantage. Raúl Jiménez rose to the occasion, scoring both goals for México in what would be the only goals of the match. Meanwhile, Luis Malagón’s crucial saves secured a clean sheet and punched their ticket to the final.
As the USA fell short in their semifinal test, Panama became the final team with a chance to conquer a once written-off México. But the momentum El Tri carried proved too strong for Thomas Christiansen and company. An early header in the 8th minute from — who else — Raúl Jiménez set the tone for what looked to be a fitting end to México’s remarkable run.
Tension spiked when a stoppage-time penalty from Alberto Carrasquilla brought Panama level, leaving both teams with everything to play for. But once again, Jiménez rose to the occasion. In the dying moments of extra time, he buried a penalty that sealed the title for México — a dramatic finish to one of the most storybook campaigns in Nations League history.
Entering the Nations League as underdogs — largely due to previously questioned tactical shifts — México’s turnaround now offers a renewed sense of optimism. With their sights set on the 2026 World Cup, the team looks poised to showcase their growth and talent on the global stage once again.
