Mexico open pursuit of sixth title by edging past Costa Rica

Mexico is the most successful Men’s team in the history of the Homeless World Cup, winning the tournament five times, including last time out in Seoul 2024 when they beat England in the final.

In pursuit of a sixth trophy in Oslo, Mexico edged out Costa Rica 4-2 in both teams’ opening fixture in what was an intense, intriguing fixture. Costa Rica’s goalkeeper produced a string of impressive saves in the game, including early on to deny Mexico taking the lead, before great hold-up play near the corner ended with Costa Rica deservedly going in front. 

Mexico drew level with a sweet shot from distance, before Costa Rica did likewise to go back in front. Mexico missed the chance to draw level before half-time with a shot just going over the bar. 

Into the second half, Costa Rica’s goalkeeper kept Mexico out with two fantastic saves before a shot from the edge of the box saw Mexico go level. Soon Mexico were 3-2 in front via a left foot shot from distance as chances came thick and fast for both teams. Costa Rica spurned a chance to draw level off a counter attack as the clock ran down, before Mexico scored a penalty to double their lead. 

Following the victory for his side, Mexico coach Heriberto Espejel Cuellar said:

“The first match is always difficult given all the travelling and adapting to the pitch but the important thing is that we won. And we will continue bit by bit. Given that Costa Rica is our neighbour, we knew that it would be a difficult match. Their goalkeeper played an excellent game and made a number of impressive saves. We were happy to secure the victory. We are also very happy to be here in Oslo. It’s a beautiful city. As is the case wherever we go, there are Mexicans in the stands supporting the team and that too made us very happy.”

Words by Craig Williams | Photos by Anita Milas