Mexico and the United States played out a tense 1-1 draw at Estadio Azteca in a crucial CONCACAF qualifier that keeps both sides level in Group B for the 2026 World Cup race. The match was defined by a dramatic late twist when referee Ismail Elfath initially awarded the USA a penalty in stoppage time, only for VAR to overturn the decision after a lengthy two-minute review.

The reversal sparked furious protests from the American bench and players, while the home crowd erupted in relief. Mexico had taken the lead through a well-worked move in the first half, but the visitors responded with a powerful header to level the score before the interval. Both teams created chances in a fiery second half, yet neither could find the decisive goal.

The result leaves the CONCACAF standings unchanged, with Mexico and USA still neck-and-neck heading into the final rounds of qualification. The clash highlighted the intense rivalry and the growing importance of video technology in high-stakes World Cup qualifiers.