VAR Denies Mexico in Costa Rica Draw
Ugalde #9 taking on Edson Alvarez #4
Las Vegas, NV – Allegiant Stadium | June 22, 2025 | Gold Cup Group A
In front of nearly 60,000 fans under the bright lights of Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Mexico and Costa Rica battled to a dramatic 0-0 draw on Saturday night, closing out Group A play in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.
While both teams had already secured spots in the quarterfinals, the stakes were high for first place in the group. Mexico dominated possession and thought they’d won it late through a spectacular bicycle kick from Santiago Giménez—only for VAR to intervene and rule the goal out for offside.
In the end, Mexico topped Group A on goal difference, while Costa Rica settled for second place after a heroic defensive display anchored by veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas.
Raul JImenez #9 and Johan Vazquez #5 Trying to win header from Costa Rica
First Half: Mexico Dominate, Costa Rica Bend But Don’t Break
From kickoff, Mexico imposed themselves with high possession and quick passing. Luis Chávez was lively in midfield, spraying passes to the flanks where Vega and Alvarado repeatedly tested Costa Rica’s full-backs.
The best chance of the half arrived in the 24th minute. Raúl Jiménez rose highest to meet a cross, only to see his header crash off the crossbar with Navas rooted to the spot. Costa Rica survived the scare and tightened their defensive shape.
Despite Mexico’s 65% possession, Costa Rica stayed organized. Brandon Aguilera and Orlando Galo worked tirelessly to cut passing lanes, while Navas commanded his box confidently.
Keylor Navas #1 showing sportsmanship with Raul Jimenez #9
Second Half: Navas Steals the Show
The second half brought more of the same narrative—Mexico attacking, Costa Rica defending.
Keylor Navas, at 38 years old, proved why he’s still a legend. He made several big saves:
Tipped a low drive from Raúl Jiménez around the post in the 58th minute.
Parried a powerful shot from Santiago Giménez in the 76th minute.
Showed great composure dealing with crosses and corners as Mexico pushed forward.
Costa Rica threatened sporadically on the counter. Manfred Ugalde had a half-chance in the 63rd minute, but his shot went wide under pressure from Johan Vásquez.
Santi Gimenez #11 Disallowed bicycle kick in stoppage time
Just when it looked destined for a draw, Mexico thought they’d won it in stoppage time. Santiago Giménez, on as a substitute, pulled off a brilliant bicycle kick that flew into the top corner. The stadium erupted in celebration.
But joy quickly turned to frustration. After a lengthy VAR review, the goal was disallowed because he was apparently off side when the play had started from the set piece.
Ugalde #9 Trying to intercept a pass from Mexico
Yellow Card Trouble for Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s defensive heroics came at a cost. Key players Manfred Ugalde and Carlos Mora both received yellow cards, ruling them out of the quarterfinal due to accumulation. Their absences could loom large in the next round.
Mexico and Costa Rican players battling for the ball in air
Final Whistle: What It Means
Mexico finishes top of Group A with 7 points and a superior goal difference. They’ll face Saudi Arabia in the quarterfinals on June 28. Coach Javier Aguirre praised his team’s control but lamented the lack of finishing touch.
Costa Rica also ends on 7 points but as runners-up. They’ll face a massive test against the United States. Despite missing suspended players, their defensive grit—and the magic of Keylor Navas—gives them hope.
Intense scenes shows both players trying to fight for the ball during a cross
Verdict: Mexico Must Find Their Cutting Edge
It was a night of frustration for Mexico. They dominated territory, created chances, and even found the net spectacularly—only for VAR to break their hearts.
Costa Rica, meanwhile, executed their defensive plan perfectly. Navas turned back the clock with a vintage performance, earning Man of the Match honors.
As the Gold Cup heads to the knockout stage, both teams have plenty to fight for. For Mexico, the challenge is to convert chances into goals. For Costa Rica, it’s about defying the odds once again.