Mexico pulled off an incredible upset. They beat Argentina on November 14 in the Round of 32. The match ended 2-2 after regulation time. Mexico won the penalty shootout 5-4 to advance to the knockout stage. Now they face Portugal on November 18 in Doha, Qatar.
Pluto TV’s Hidden Movie Section Rivals Premium Services
Korean Netflix Has 200+ Shows US Version Doesn’t Stream
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Mexico defeated Argentina 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
- Luis Gamboa scored twice for Mexico in the dramatic comeback.
- Goalkeeper Santiago Lopez saved a penalty and scored the decisive one.
- Portugal is next up on Nov. 18 in the Round of 16.
- The tournament is held in Qatar from Nov. 3-27, 2025.
How Mexico Stunned Argentina
Mexico was down 1-0 at halftime but staged a thrilling second-half comeback. Luis Gamboa netted two crucial goals to put Mexico ahead 2-1. Argentina equalized late when Fernando Closter headed in during the 87th minute. Regulation ended at 2-2, sending the match to penalties.
Netflix reveals economics behind 3-season cancellations as viewership metrics drop
YouTube Premium Originals Nobody Talks About Are Award-Winning
Coach Carlos Carino remained composed despite the tension. His team executed perfectly when it mattered most. Goalkeeper Santiago Lopez became the hero by delivering an unforgettable performance. Lopez saved an Argentine penalty and then converted the deciding shot for Mexico. The dramatic finish gave Mexico a 5-4 penalty victory.
“I had a very good idea of what I was going to do. I’d made up my mind and it worked. I knew that I was going to take the fifth penalty. I’m almost always the final penalty-taker. I sometimes like to feel the pressure and instil some calm into the team.”
Mexico’s Incredible Tournament Journey
Mexico barely qualified from the group stage. They won just one match in group play. The team only advanced as one of the eight best third-placed sides. They scraped through over Saudi Arabia due to a better conduct score. It was a close call that nearly eliminated them before the knockouts.
Luis Gamboa remained emotional after his heroic performance. The Atlas winger scored the crucial goals that sparked Mexico’s comeback. His tears afterward showed how much this victory meant. Gamboa said he visualized his mother watching and celebrating with him. That emotional connection drove his determined play.
Now Mexico believes they can beat anyone in the tournament. Coach Carino and his squad have newfound confidence. A group that nearly went home early now faces top European and South American opponents. Mexico showed the mental toughness needed to win tight matches in knockout football.
Key Player Stats from Argentina Match
Here’s how the critical performers delivered in this Round of 32 clash:
| Player | Team | Goals | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luis Gamboa | Mexico | 2 | Sparked comeback in second half |
| Santiago Lopez | Mexico | 1 (penalty) | Saved penalty, scored decisive shot |
| Fernando Closter | Argentina | 1 | Header in 87th minute for equalizer |
| Final Penalty Shootout Score | Mexico 5-4 Argentina | — | Round of 32 Advancement |
Mexico will need these clutch performances to continue. Portugal presents a much tougher test with 15 goals scored so far in the tournament. The European side brings consistent attacking prowess and organized defense. Mexico must replicate their mental resilience and precision in the upcoming knockout round.
What Mexico Must Do to Beat Portugal
- Maintain defensive shape against Portugal’s high-scoring attack.
- Press early to force turnovers and create quick transition opportunities.
- Rely on Gamboa’s pace and creativity in wide areas to stretch Portugal.
- Keep goalkeeper Lopez confident with solid defensive support.
- Avoid penalties if possible but trust Lopez if shootout becomes necessary.
Can Mexico Pull Off Another Shocking Upset?
Mexico enters the Portugal match as underdogs. They’ve shown incredible character bouncing back from nearly being eliminated. The team has chemistry and belief after the Argentina penalty victory. Coach Carino has them prepared mentally for the challenge ahead.
Portugal is the more experienced side with proven attacking firepower. They scored 15 goals in the group stage, showing dangerous offensive capabilities. Mexico will need to be defensively sharp and clinical on counterattacks. Will Mexico’s emotional momentum carry them past a stronger opponent? Can they prove that their Argentina victory was more than just luck?
Sources
- FIFA – Official U-17 World Cup coverage and match reports
- ESPN – Live scores, match statistics, and play-by-play updates
- FOX Sports – Pre-match analysis and knockout stage preview
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.