Jamaica stunned defending champion Mexico 3–2 on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Kingston’s National Stadium. The Reggae Boyz went up 3–0 in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal, but two late goals gave El Tri a way back into the series.

Jamaica makes history in Kingston

Jamaica took the lead in the 27th minute when Mexico defender Jesús Gallardo turned a Ronaldo Webster corner into his own net. Renaldo Cephas doubled the lead just after halftime, cutting in from the left before firing into the bottom corner. Richard King made it 3–0 from the penalty spot in the 63rd minute.

It was the first time Jamaica had ever scored three goals against Mexico, according to Concacaf. 

Gilberto Mora gives Mexico a lifeline

Gilberto Mora pulled one back in the 70th minute with a low shot from outside the box. At 18 years and 31 days, he became Mexico’s youngest scorer in an official competition, according to the Mexican national team. Julián Quiñones then converted a penalty in the 81st to cut Jamaica’s lead to one. 

It was Rafael Márquez’s first competitive match as Mexico head coach. The defeat extended his wait for a first win to five matches.

What Mexico needs in the second leg

Mexico hosts Jamaica at Estadio BBVA in the Monterrey area on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 9:30 p.m. Toronto time. 

A draw sends Jamaica through. A 1–0 or 2–1 Mexico win would put El Tri in the semifinals on away goals, while a 3–2 Mexico win would force extra time. A win by two or more goals would send Mexico through on aggregate. 

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