Fulham striker Raúl Jiménez delivered a performance steeped in emotion and inspiration as he helped Mexico secure a 2–1 victory over the United States in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final at NRG Stadium, Houston.
After Chris Richards put the U.S. ahead just four minutes into the match, Jiménez responded in the 27th minute with a well-timed equalizer — and a tribute that captured the hearts of football fans around the world. He celebrated by mimicking Diogo Jota’s iconic FIFA celebration, seated and pretending to hold a video game controller, before holding up a Mexico jersey bearing Jota’s name and number 20.
Jiménez and Jota shared two memorable seasons together at Wolverhampton Wanderers, developing a strong bond on and off the pitch. The tribute was in memory of Jota, who tragically died in a car accident days before the final — a loss that shook the football community.
Mexico’s winning goal came in the 77th minute, courtesy of Edson Álvarez, whose powerful header was initially ruled offside but later confirmed by VAR. Álvarez’s midfield dominance earned him Man of the Match, while Jiménez, at 34, became the second-oldest Mexican player to score against the U.S.
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