
Tags: Dominican Republic, Mexico, Concacaf Gold Cup
The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup kicked off in dramatic fashion at SoFi Stadium on Saturday, with reigning champions Mexico edging debutants Dominican Republic 3-2 in a pulsating Group A clash that showcased both firepower and fearlessness from the tournament newcomers.
Despite Mexico’s pedigree and expectations, it was the Dominican Republic who won admiration on the night, delivering a spirited performance that pushed the titleholders to the brink.
Edson Álvarez broke the deadlock in the 44th minute, rising to meet a corner from Orbelín Pineda and nodding Mexico in front just before the half. The momentum carried into the second half as veteran striker Raúl Jiménez doubled El Tri’s advantage in the 47th, finishing from close range off a clever assist from Santiago Giménez.
But the Dominican Republic, making their first-ever Gold Cup appearance, weren’t content to be spectators. In the 51st minute, Peter González etched his name in history with the nation’s first-ever Gold Cup goal—a thunderous left-footed strike from the right side of the box that cut the deficit and ignited belief.
That joy was short-lived, though. Just two minutes later, Álvarez was again instrumental from a set piece, this time directing a corner that deflected off César Montes and into the net to restore Mexico’s two-goal cushion.
Yet the Dominicans refused to fold. In the 67th minute, Edison Azcona brought them back within striking distance, capping a fine individual move with a clinical finish after a precise through ball from Heinz Mörschel.
Pushing for an equalizer in stoppage time, the Dominican Republic forced two clutch saves from Mexican goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, keeping the scoreline intact and ensuring Mexico opened their title defense with a hard-earned three points.
Both teams now shift focus to Wednesday’s doubleheader at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where the Dominican Republic will face Costa Rica and Mexico will take on Suriname in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested Group A.
Trinidad and Tobago kicks off their campaign against the United States later today while Jamaica will take on Guatemala on Monday.
Photo: Concacaf.com