'It’s an extra boost' - Mexico's standout Raul Jimenez hails importance of lifting 2025 Gold Cup ahead of 2026 World Cup

After defeating the United States 2-1 to win the Gold Cup, Mexico star Raúl Jiménez emphasized the importance of winning a title one year before hosting the World Cup.

"We started off slow but kept improving; it’s an extra boost as we wrap up the summer before the World Cup - winning, lifting the trophy - it will be something very positive heading into the upcoming friendly matches and the World Cup. We had it in mind, and we’re very happy," Jimenez said.

Jimenez was a key catalyst to El Tri's 10th Gold Cup win, scoring the equalizer ahead of halftime against the Americans.

Edson Álvarez, Mexico’s captain, scored the game-winner against the U.S. and was full of emotion after the win.

“I’m speechless, very happy because it was 35 days of training camp without seeing our families. Our desire was to win it, for all the effort we’ve put in to be rewarded with a title - but there are still many things we need to improve,” said the West Ham player.

He admitted he was initially concerned he would have another goal that he scored ruled back by VAR, but he made sure to have a proper celebration following it being confirmed.

“They had already taken several goals away from me before. I thought I was in a good position. They cut off the goal celebration, but when it was finally given, it was an incredible joy,” he said.

Gilberto Mora, the 16-year-old midfielder from Club Tijuana, continues to capture global attention with his standout performances for the Mexican national team. His role in the 2025 Gold Cup not only impressed fans but also secured him a place in football history.

On Sunday, Mora became the youngest player ever to feature in the final of a major international tournament. At just 16 years and 265 days old, he started for Mexico in the Gold Cup Final against the United States and played 75 minutes in the team’s 2-1 victory under coach Javier Aguirre.

His record surpasses that of Spain’s Lamine Yamal, who previously made history at age 17 by playing in the Euro 2024 Final, where Spain defeated England 2-1. Mora also edges past the legendary Pelé, who was 17 years and 249 days old when he starred in the 1958 World Cup Final, scoring twice as Brazil beat Sweden 5-2.

In addition to this milestone, Mora had already made headlines earlier in the tournament by becoming the youngest player to debut in an official match with the senior Mexican national team.

Aguirre’s team will return to action during the September FIFA window, facing Japan on Sept. 6 and South Korea on Sept. 9. Both matches will be played in the United States.