Mexico defeated Costa Rica 3-1 on June 22, 2025, in a dominant CONCACAF Nations League match. Goals from Gimenez, Lozano, and Álvaro secured the win. Mexico showcased control, skill, and leadership, continuing their strong form ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. A powerful statement from El Tri.
Mexico vs. Costa Rica (22-6-25): Mexico Dominates with 3-1 Victory in CONCACAF Showdown
The Mexican national football team secured an emphatic 3-1 win over Costa Rica on June 22, 2025, in a thrilling international match that showcased their dominance in the CONCACAF region. Played at a vibrant Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, this clash brought excitement, goals, and top-tier football for fans across North and Central America.
This game was part of the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League and served as a crucial test for both teams ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With standout performances from seasoned stars and emerging talent, Mexico reaffirmed its position as a regional powerhouse.
First Half: Mexico Sets the Tone Mexico vs. Costa Rica
From the opening whistle, Mexico took control of the game with high pressing, quick passing, and sharp movement. Their first breakthrough came in the 14th minute, when Santiago Gimenez capitalized on a defensive error from Costa Rica and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner. The goal ignited the home crowd and set the tone for the match.
Costa Rica tried to respond, but Mexico’s midfield trio of Edson Álvaro, Luis Chávez, and Carlos Rodríguez dominated possession and dictated the tempo. Mexico’s pressure paid off again in the 37th minute, as Hiring “Chucky” Lozano made a brilliant run down the left wing and finished with a precise strike to make it 2-0.
By halftime, Mexico had completed over 300 passes and maintained nearly 68% possession, leaving Costa Rica struggling to find rhythm.
Second Half: Costa Rica Fights Back, but Mexico Finishes Strong
Costa Rica returned after the break with renewed energy. Manager Gustavo Alfaro made two quick substitutions to reinforce the midfield and inject pace into the attack. The changes worked briefly, as veteran forward Joel Campbell pulled one back for the visitors in the 58th minute, finishing a fast break with a curling shot past Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.
The goal gave Costa Rica momentum, and they pushed for an equalizer. However, Mexico weathered the pressure and remained composed. In the 75th minute, Edson Álvaro sealed the result with a thunderous header from a corner kick, restoring Mexico’s two-goal lead and all but ending Costa Rica’s comeback hopes.
Despite a late VAR check that ruled out a fourth goal for offside, Mexico maintained their control and closed out the game with confidence.
Player Highlights Mexico vs. Costa Rica
- Santiago Gimenez – The young striker continues to impress with his clinical finishing and movement off the ball.
- Hiring Lozano – A constant threat on the left flank, Lozano’s speed and decision-making earned him the Man of the Match title.
- Edson Álvaro – Anchored the midfield and added a goal, showcasing his leadership and versatility.
For Costa Rica, Joel Campbell remained a bright spot with his experience and finishing ability, but the team overall lacked the cohesion and energy to match Mexico’s pace.
Tactical Breakdown Mexico vs. Costa Rica
Mexico’s 4-3-3 formation gave them width and control in the midfield, with the fullbacks pushing high to stretch Costa Rica’s defense. Head coach Jaime Lozano emphasized possession-based football, and the team delivered with over 85% pass accuracy.
Costa Rica struggled with Mexico’s pressing system and failed to consistently feed their forwards. Defensive lapses and a lack of midfield creativity hurt their chances of gaining a foothold in the match.
What This Means for Both Teams Mexico vs. Costa Rica
With this win, Mexico continues their strong form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. The result boosts morale, reinforces tactical strengths, and highlights the growing talent pipeline in Mexican football.
For Costa Rica, the loss is a setback but also a learning opportunity. They must now regroup, address defensive frailties, and find new strategies to compete at the highest level in CONCACAF.
Final Score: Mexico vs. Costa Rica
Mexico 3 – 1 Costa Rica
Goals:
- Mexico: Gimenez (14’), Lozano (37’), Álvaro (75’)
- Costa Rica: Campbell (58’)