Mexico Wins 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup

Mexico Defeats Panama 1-0 in Thrilling Final

Substitute Santi Gimenez Scores Late Winner

Carson, Calif. (AP) - Substitute Santi Gimenez scored an 88th-minute goal to give Mexico a 1-0 victory over Panama in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup final on Sunday.

Gimenez, who came on for Alexis Vega in the 72nd minute, headed home a cross from Uriel Antuna to secure Mexico's eighth Gold Cup title. The goal set off a wild celebration among the Mexican players and fans in the SoFi Stadium.

Mexico dominated possession and created the better chances throughout the match, but they were unable to break down Panama's defense until Gimenez's late strike. Panama had a few good chances on the counterattack, but they were unable to find the back of the net.

The victory was Mexico's third straight Gold Cup title and their eighth overall. They are now tied with the United States for the most Gold Cup titles.

In a post-match interview, Mexico coach Gerardo Martino praised his team's performance and said he was proud of the way they played in the final.

"We knew it was going to be a difficult match," Martino said. "Panama is a good team, but we were able to control the game and create chances. I'm very happy with the way my players performed tonight."

Panama coach Thomas Christiansen was disappointed with the result but said he was proud of his team's effort.

"We gave it our all, but it wasn't enough tonight," Christiansen said. "Mexico is a great team and they deserved to win. I'm proud of my players for the way they played in this tournament."

The 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup was a thrilling tournament that showcased the best of soccer in the region. Mexico's victory was a fitting end to a memorable tournament.