The Mexican U-17 national team has achieved a historic milestone, defeating Argentina 5–4 in a dramatic penalty shootout (after a 2–2 draw in regular time) to advance to the Round of 16 at the Qatar 2025 U-17 World Cup. Up next: Portugal.
Goalkeeper Santi López became the hero of the night, saving Argentina’s first penalty from Gastón Bouhier and then stepping up to score the decisive kick that sealed Mexico’s unforgettable victory. Óscar Pineda, José Mancilla, Karin Hernández, and Juan López also converted their penalties with confidence.
Until now, facing Argentina in World Cups had only meant heartbreak for Mexico. The Albiceleste had defeated the Mexican senior team in all four of their World Cup meetings (1930, 2006, 2010, and 2022). Just weeks ago, Mexico was also eliminated by Argentina in the U-20 World Cup.
This time, the story changed. Despite entering the knockout stage thanks to fair play and Argentina advancing as undefeated leaders of Group D, Mexico played with grit, courage, and heart to claim an extraordinary result.
This victory adds to Mexico’s proud U-17 World Cup history, including championship titles in Peru 2005 and Mexico 2011, making it the nation’s most successful category.
Match Highlights:
– Argentina opened the scoring early at minute 9 through Ramiro Tulian.
– Mexico equalized right after halftime when Luis Gamboa headed in a cross from Ian Olvera (46’), confirmed by VAR.
– Gamboa struck again at minute 58, completing the comeback with a low shot.
– Fernando Closter tied the match for Argentina with another header, also confirmed by VAR, sending the game to penalties.
In the end, Mexico’s nerve and determination prevailed — marking another glorious chapter for El Tri Sub-17.