Mexico secured their place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a 2-0 victory over the United States in the Concacaf Under-20 championship final at the Azteca on Sunday. The win also saw Mexico retain their regional title, finishing the tournament unbeaten and conceding only one goal.
Controversial red card overshadows final
The match was marred by a controversial decision just before half-time when US captain Chris Applewhite was shown a red card after a VAR review for a challenge on Hugo Camberos. The replay appeared to show minimal contact between the players, leaving the US to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.
At the time of the red card, Mexico were already leading 1-0, thanks to Cristóbal Alfaro's powerful close-range header from a set piece in the 28th minute.
Alfaro's double seals victory
Alfaro doubled Mexico's lead in the 69th minute with another header, securing the victory and the Olympic berth. The US had already qualified for the Olympics as hosts, while both teams had also secured spots in next year's Under-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan by reaching the semi-finals.
“It’s a dream come true. Although I scored, this is a collective achievement. I thank the fans for their unconditional support,” Alfaro said in a post-match interview. “It was an incredible experience to win at home.”
