Mexico Dominates Saudi Arabia 2-0 to Storm Into Gold Cup Semifinals - Complete Player Ratings

Mexico controlled the match throughout and comfortably beat Saudi Arabia 2-0 to secure their place in the Gold Cup semifinals.

The opening half was relatively quiet as Mexico struggled to penetrate Saudi Arabia's defensive line despite controlling the ball for most of the period. El Tri's inability to create chances in the attacking third remained an issue, managing only a single shot on target in the first 45 minutes—which was the sole attempt from either side.

Everything changed right after halftime. Mexico adopted a more attacking approach, resulting in Marcel Ruiz striking the crossbar just one minute into the second period before Raúl Jiménez set up Alexis Vega with a clear scoring opportunity. Following his initial effort being stopped by the keeper, Vega gathered the loose ball and slotted home Mexico's first goal in the 49th minute.

After taking the lead, Mexico effectively sealed the victory as Saudi Arabia posed no offensive threat whatsoever. El Tri became more relaxed with their advantage and appeared dangerous throughout, eventually doubling their lead when center-back Abdullah Madu made a crucial error while attempting to clear a Mateo Chávez delivery, inadvertently directing the ball into his own net for a costly own goal.

Mexico completed the match without allowing Saudi Arabia a single shot on target, easily overcoming a lackluster Saudi Arabian team. While Aguirre's squad still has areas to develop, they remain the strongest contenders to claim the 2025 Gold Cup championship.

Their next challenge will be against Honduras in the semifinals this coming Wednesday.

Individual player assessments from the match are listed below.

Mexico Player Ratings vs. Saudi Arabia (4-3-3)

*Ratings Provided by FotMob*

Saudi Arabia Player Ratings vs. Mexico (4-4-2)

*Ratings Provided by FotMob*

Player of the Match: Alexis Vega (Mexico)