Canada vs Mexico: Raul Jimenez’s Double Seals Mexico’s 2-0 Win in Nations League Semifinal

Published on: March 21, 2025

By: Shiv Kumar Sharma | TrendNewsFlashUpdate

Introduction

Mexico secured a dominant 2-0 victory over Canada in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal on Thursday. ⚽ Raul Jimenez stunned Canada with a goal in the first minute and later sealed the game with a brilliant free kick in the 75th minute.

Despite Canada's aggressive attempts to equalize, Mexico's solid defense and clinical finishing ensured their spot in the final. The match was fast-paced, high-intensity, and full of drama, with five yellow cards issued in the first half alone!

Match Highlights

Raul Jimenez scored just 45 seconds into the game
A stunning free kick goal in the 75th minute
Canada received three yellow cards within the first 33 minutes
Mexico's solid defensive display kept Canada from scoring

Canada vs Mexico: Full Match Analysis

1️⃣ Mexico’s Lightning-Fast Start

Within just 45 seconds, Mexico shocked Canada as Raul Jimenez capitalized on a defensive error and fired the ball past Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. This early goal immediately put pressure on the 31st-ranked Canadian team, forcing them into an uphill battle.

2️⃣ Controversial Refereeing Decisions

Canada had a strong appeal for a penalty in the 9th minute, when Mexican captain Edson Álvarez appeared to foul Derek Cornelius inside the penalty area. However, the referee dismissed the appeal and instead awarded a free kick to Mexico, a decision that left Canadian players and fans furious.

3️⃣ Jimenez’s Stunning Free Kick Goal

As Canada pushed hard for an equalizer, Jimenez delivered the knockout punch in the 75th minute. With a perfectly executed free kick, he curled the ball around the Canadian defensive wall and into the net, leaving St. Clair helpless. This goal sealed Mexico’s dominant performance and ensured their place in the final.

What’s Next? Tournament Impact

Mexico will now face Panama in the final, while Canada will battle the U.S. for third place.

The Nations League winner will receive $2 million, with the runner-up earning $1 million.

Conclusion

This high-intensity semifinal was filled with drama, controversy, and world-class football. Mexico capitalized on early chances and defended well to keep Canada at bay. Meanwhile, Canada will be left frustrated with the refereeing decisions that may have changed the course of the game.

What do you think about the match? Should Canada have been awarded a penalty? Drop your thoughts in the comments!