The international soccer stage was set for a high-stakes friendly as Mexico hosted Colombia at the colossal AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on October 11, 2025. The match, kicking off at 9:00 p.m. ET, was more than just a warm-up: it was a crucial test for both teams as they geared up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Mexico sought to bounce back from recent draws and experiment with a refreshed squad, Colombia arrived with momentum, having netted nine goals in their last two outings and already secured a spot in next summer’s tournament.
Fans from across the Americas tuned in, with the game broadcast in both English and Spanish on a host of networks including FOX Deportes, TUDN, Univision, and streamed on platforms such as fuboTV and ViX. The 88,000-seat stadium buzzed with anticipation, and the players responded with intensity from the first whistle.
Colombia wasted no time asserting their dominance, dictating the rhythm and pressing high. The early minutes saw the South American squad controlling possession, probing Mexico’s backline. Mexico, under the guidance of coach Javier Aguirre, fielded a lineup blending experience and emerging talent, a necessity given recent injuries. Santiago Giménez led the attack, flanked by Alexis Vega and Orbelin Pineda, while Erik Lira and Marcel Ruíz anchored the midfield.
But it was Colombia’s day from the outset. In the 16th minute, Jhon Lucumí broke the deadlock, pouncing on a free kick delivered by James Rodríguez. The Bologna defender’s finish sent the Colombian fans into a frenzy and set the tone for what would become a lopsided affair. As the first half wore on, Mexico tried to respond, with Giménez coming close after a quick break, only for his shot to graze the outside of the net. Despite Mexico’s efforts to build through possession, Colombia’s midfield, marshaled by Jefferson Lerma, stifled creativity and cut off passing lanes.
“Since we got back together with the Federation, I’ve wanted world-class rivals who challenge us, who make our players uncomfortable, and Colombia is one of them,” Aguirre stated before the match. “Colombia has a very good team, it’s a team that commands a lot of respect. Almost all of its players play outside their country, which speaks volumes about their level.” His words proved prophetic as Colombia’s European-based stars, including Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez, orchestrated wave after wave of attack.
The second half began with Mexico hoping that fresh legs would spark a turnaround. Aguirre introduced Luis Romo, Erick Sánchez, and Hirving Lozano, aiming to inject energy and pace. Yet, Colombia’s efficiency in transition proved lethal. In the 56th minute, Luis Díaz doubled the lead, capitalizing on a midfield error by Mexico. James Rodríguez threaded a perfect pass, and Díaz made no mistake, firing past the helpless Luis Malagón.
Colombia’s confidence grew as the clock ticked on. In the 64th minute, Jefferson Lerma delivered a highlight-reel moment, smashing a volley into the net after a defensive clearance from a free kick. The midfield general’s goal was a fitting reward for his commanding performance throughout the match.
Substitutions continued as both coaches sought to test their rosters. For Mexico, Carlos Rodríguez replaced Erik Lira, while Julián Quiñones and Germán Berterame entered the fray. Colombia, managed by Néstor Lorenzo, rotated his squad as well, bringing on Jáminton Campaz, Johan Carbonero, Juan Camilo Portilla, and Richard Ríos. The changes, however, did little to stem Colombia’s tide.
The final act came in the 87th minute. Johan Carbonero, newly introduced, latched onto a sublime through ball from Juan Fernando Quintero and coolly slotted home Colombia’s fourth. The Inter Porto Alegre forward’s strike capped a night of clinical finishing and team cohesion.
Referee decisions added a layer of drama, with yellow cards shown to Mexico’s Marcel Ruíz, Jorge Sánchez, and Jesús Gallardo for various infractions. Yet, the disciplinary moments did little to alter the game’s flow. Colombia remained in cruise control, their defense rarely troubled and their attack relentless.
As the final whistle sounded—without any stoppage time after Berterame’s late shot rattled the post—Colombia celebrated a commanding 4-0 victory. The scoreline reflected not only their attacking prowess but also their tactical discipline and depth. For Mexico, it was a sobering reminder of the work ahead as they continue preparations for the World Cup on home soil.
Despite the defeat, the match provided valuable lessons for El Tri’s fringe players, many of whom seized the chance to impress in front of a packed stadium and a global audience. The likes of Santiago Giménez and Alexis Vega showed flashes of potential, while the defensive unit will look to regroup ahead of their next fixture.
Looking back, the rivalry between Mexico and Colombia has always been tightly contested—28 previous meetings had yielded ten wins for Mexico, nine for Colombia, and nine draws. But on this October night, Colombia’s superiority was undeniable. Their recent run, including back-to-back victories and a historic 6-3 rout of Venezuela in World Cup qualifying, signals a squad peaking at the right moment.
Coach Lorenzo, reflecting on his team’s trajectory and the supportive words from Colombian legend Carlos Valderrama, remarked, “He always supported the process, highlighting the many positive aspects that emerged, so I take it as a good prediction on his part, given his knowledge of soccer and the support he has given us, and I don’t take it as pressure per se.”
For Mexico, the road ahead remains challenging. They will host Ecuador at Estadio Akron on October 14, then face Uruguay and Paraguay in November friendlies. Each match offers a new opportunity to fine-tune tactics and solidify the squad before the World Cup spotlight returns to North America.
AT&T Stadium, a venue steeped in soccer history and set to play a major role in the upcoming World Cup, witnessed a night where Colombia’s class shone brightest. As fans filed out, one question lingered: can Mexico regroup and rise to the occasion when it matters most? Only time will tell, but for now, Colombia’s resounding win sends a clear message to their future opponents—they’re a team to be reckoned with on the world stage.
