Mexico and Costa Rica battled to a tense 1-1 draw that leaves their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification hopes hanging in the balance. Costa Rica stunned the home crowd early when Contreras fired them ahead, but Mexico responded through Lozano who equalized with a clinical finish just before halftime.

The second half saw both sides create chances but neither could find a decisive breakthrough until the dying moments. Mexico believed they had snatched victory in the 89th minute, only for VAR to rule the goal out for offside, sparking frustration among players and fans alike.

The result keeps the group wide open with crucial matches still to come as both teams look to secure their place in the expanded 2026 tournament.