Internationals: Raúl helps Mexico to 10th Gold Cup title

Raúl Jiménez played a pivotal role in helping Mexico retain their Gold Cup title with a 2-1 win over the United States on Sunday. It would have been a poignant evening for the striker, playing his first game since learning of the passing of Diogo Jota, and he walked out wearing a shirt bearing his former Wolves teammate’s name and number. Things didn’t start well for Mexico, with Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards heading the States into a fourth minute lead, but Raúl restored parity with an absolute rocket of a shot into the roof of the net. Raúl then paid further homage to Jota, replicating his gaming celebration in front of the Diogo J. 20 jersey. Mexico had much the better of the Final but had to wait until the 77th minute for the winner when Edson Alvarez headed in. It was initially flagged offside, but VAR confirmed that the West Ham midfielder was level when he made contact. Raúl played 86 minutes before making way for Santiago Gimenez, and was duly named Man of the Match as Mexico claimed their 10th Gold Cup.