PANAMA CITY, Panama — American-born players Richard Ledezma and Brian Gutiérrez made their international debuts, leading the Mexico national team to a much-needed 1-0 victory over Panama in a pre-World Cup warm-up match, ending a six-game winless streak.
In a dramatic finish, defender Richard Peralta inadvertently scored an own goal in the 92nd minute, sealing Mexico’s first victory since last July’s triumph over the United States in the Gold Cup final.
Ledezma, born in Phoenix to Mexican parents, completed a one-time eligibility switch with FIFA after previously playing official matches for the United States. He started the match and participated for the full 90 minutes.
Gutiérrez, hailing from Berwyn, Illinois, didn’t undergo a switch process since he had only played friendly matches for the U.S. team against Venezuela and Costa Rica in January 2025.
“It was valuable playing time for me. I’m focused on progressing step by step,” Gutiérrez commented.
Gutiérrez also started and was substituted out in the 57th minute. He was part of the CONCACAF Nations League roster last March, though he did not see any action in the games.
Obed Vargas, born in Anchorage, Alaska, also earned a starting position for Mexico in this match.
“These three young men, born in the United States but choosing to represent Mexico, have my utmost respect,” stated Mexico’s coach Javier Aguirre. “All three performed admirably, and they are promising talents for the future. I’m pleased with their contributions.”
Vargas, a midfielder, made his senior team debut for Mexico in October 2024 when he came on as a substitute against the United States in a 2-0 win.