The Mexican striker netted the equalizer against the USMNT in the first half of the Gold Cup final
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After an early goal from the United States, Mexico responded with pressure – and a moment of brilliance. Midway through the first half, a perfectly timed through-ball from Marcel Ruíz found Raúl Jiménez, who fired a stunning shot into the top corner, with U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese rooted to the spot.
But the goal wasn’t the only moment that stood out – it was Jiménez’s emotional celebration that captured hearts. After scoring, he ran toward the bench and revealed the shirt he had worn under his jersey. He then sat on the pitch and celebrated in the iconic style of Diogo Jota – a heartfelt nod to his former Wolverhampton teammate, who tragically passed away just days earlier.
The gesture was a touching tribute from Jiménez, highlighting not only the importance of the goal but also the personal meaning behind it.
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Jota, who passed away this week in a car accident, was a former teammate of Jiménez during their time at Wolverhampton. Jiménez admitted he was deeply affected by the news, sharing that they were close friends who stayed in regular contact.
As a tribute to the late Portuguese footballer, Jiménez honored Jota in two heartfelt moments. Before kickoff, during the pre-match ceremony, the Fulham striker took the field wearing a jersey with the number 20 and Jota’s name on the back. It was a powerful symbol of remembrance and respect for his friend.
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This was Jiménez’s 42nd goal for the Mexican national team. He is now just 10 goals away from tying Javier “Chicharito” Hernández as Mexico’s all-time leading scorer, and only four behind Jared Borgetti, who sits second with 46.
