Mexico clinched the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship title on Sunday after a cinematic 2-1 comeback over back-to-back champions the USA.
Highlighter: Berchimas 52′; Mendaña 90+7′, Ochoa 120+2′
Familiar foes, these two rivals met for the fourth time in the final stage and 12th overall, meaning it was always going to be a mouth-watering event. But fans could not have predicted the drama at the Estadio León.
Looking to win their first title since 2015, Mexico was better throughout the first half, forcing the US defense to make last-minute blocks and releases.
Goalkeeper Adam Beaudry maintained the stalemate with two diving saves as El Tri finally rued missed opportunities.
After the U.S. had a goal ruled out for offside, 16-year-old Nimfasha Berchimas of Charlotte FC ran through the Mexican defense and scored a stunning long-range curler that beat the diving Emmanuel Ochoa.
Mexico continued to increase the pressure and again had the USA on their heels for the remaining 30 minutes, with 24 shots to four by the 90th minute. VAR then made a second big decision in the final when El Tri had a potential equalizer ruled out for a questionable offside.
Immediately afterwards, tempers flared between both sides and yellow cards were plentiful. Fans also threw items onto the pitch as the clock ticked down and five minutes of stoppage time ended.
However, Mexico were allowed to continue the game and Cruz Azul’s Mateo Levy Mendaña headed against the post with the last touch of the half to force extra time.
In the next 30 minutes, both goalkeepers needed to be at the top of the game again and the fight continued. Then, once again in the final moments, the USA switched off defensively and Mexico attacked.
Deep into stoppage time, a cross was delivered into the box and Diego Ochoa headed home as El Tri clinched their record 14th title over the consecutive champions.
This can certainly be considered the game of the year!
