In a celebratory atmosphere at the Estadio Nacional Jorge Alberto 'El Mágico' González, El Salvador played to a 1-1 draw against Mexican club Pachuca on March 22, 2025. The match carried special significance as it honored the iconic Salvadoran footballer Jorge Alberto 'El Mágico' González, marking an emotional tribute to one of the nation’s most revered athletes.
The game kicked off at 6:30 PM local time, enticing a crowd of 23,700 fans who were eager to see both teams compete. The event was telecasted through local Salvadoran channels Aloud Sport and MegavisiónGO, bringing the excitement to homes across the country. A tribute ceremony preceded the game, recognizing González’s contributions to football.
After a cautious start, the Mexican side took the lead in the 41st minute when Ilian Hernández converted a penalty following a foul inside the box. The penalty was awarded after a foul was committed by Jorge Cruz on Hernández, and he coolly slotted the ball past Salvadoran keeper Mario González. Despite their struggles in the first half, the Salvadoran team showed resilience.
El Salvador, now under the guidance of coach Hernán Darío 'Bolillo' Gómez, sought to make amends in the second half. Changes made at halftime seemed to spark an improvement as the Salvadorans began to assert more pressure on their opponents. In the 58th minute, Emerson Mauricio equalized for 'La Selecta' with a deft finish, capitalizing on a pass from Enrico Dueñas that left Pachuca’s defense scrambling. This goal was a highlight of the match, stirring hope among the passionate home fans.
As the match progressed, Pachuca pressed for the lead once again, dominating possession but failing to convert opportunities into goals. The Salvadoran side, meanwhile, capitalized on counter-attacks and showed moments of creativity. Mario González, the Salvadoran goalkeeper, made several vital saves, including a crucial stop that denied Pachuca’s potent attackers after a free kick.
In the closing stages, both teams had chances to snatch a late winner, but solid defending and missed opportunities meant the scoreline remained level at 1-1. Leonardo Menjívar replaced Mauricio due to injury later in the match, and fresh legs were critical as both teams fatigue began to set in. Another substitution for El Salvador saw Rafael Tejada replace Jairo Henríquez, seeking to rejuvenate the attack.
Throughout the match, the crowd maintained a vibrant atmosphere, singing and supporting their team energetically. It was evident that this friendly match was not just a test of skills, but also a chance for the Salvadoran public to celebrate their footballing history and legends. Players and fans alike shared in the nostalgia of González’s legacy, giving the encounter an extra layer of significance.
Despite the draw, both teams showcased their preparations for the upcoming competitive matches. El Salvador is gearing up for the CONCACAF qualifiers, while Pachuca is anticipating their ongoing Liga MX season. The friendly encounter offered Gómez the opportunity to assess his squad as he looks to build a competitive team capable of success on the international stage.
The night ended with a warm reception for González, who was beloved not only for his incredible skills on the field but also for his unwavering spirit and dedication to the national team. This game marked another step in the journey of 'La Selecta' under a new coach, reigniting dreams for a brighter future in Salvadoran football.
As players shook hands post-match, the legacy of 'El Mágico' González lingered in the air, a reminder of the bonds forged through football and the passion it inspires across generations. The clash between Pachuca and El Salvador was more than just a friendly—it was a celebration of culture, sportsmanship, and national pride.
