Raúl Jiménez has solidified his status as one of Mexico's best footballers by scoring his 39th goal for the national team during the Concacaf Nations League final against Panama on March 23, 2025. This pivotal match took place at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, and ended with Mexico winning 2-0, propelled by Jiménez's remarkable performance.
At just 33 years old, the Fulham striker continues to break records and rewrite history. His goal against Panama not only secured an important win for Mexico but also placed him among the top three all-time scorers for the national team, tying him with the legendary Cuauhtémoc Blanco. Over the years, Jiménez has developed from a promising talent into a vital contributor for El Tri, consistently scoring since his debut in 2013.
Jiménez's historic header came as early as the seventh minute of the match, assisted beautifully by Roberto Alvarado. The ball was deftly directed into the net, showcasing Jiménez's sharp eye and decisive finishing skills. This achievement marks a significant milestone in both his career and the narrative of Mexican football, as just two other players have netted more goals for their country. Javier "Chicharito" Hernández leads the chart with 52 goals, and Jared Borgetti follows close behind with 46.
Interestingly, statistics regarding Jiménez's goal count can be a little tricky. FIFA officially counts Jiménez's goals, which include a controversial tally of 38, excluding one scored against Martinique in 2019—this is due to Martinique's non-affiliation with FIFA, although the Mexican Football Federation recognizes that goal, bringing Jiménez's total to 39 based on their records.
During Mexico’s triumphant journey in the Concacaf Nations League, Jiménez has proven to be instrumental. In the semifinals, he scored a double, leading the charge against Canada and demonstrating his unparalleled talent on the pitch. His total of 12 goals this season with Fulham complements this national success and echoes his consistent form.
Looking at the broader picture, Jiménez's impact goes beyond statistics. He is part of a generation of Mexican players that has achieved notable success not only in domestic leagues but on an international stage as well, having also secured an Olympic medal at the Paris 2024 Games. His contributions to the national team have been crucial as Mexico endeavors to assert itself among the global football elite.
Sadly, one lingering concern is his performance in the World Cup fixtures, where he has yet to translate his talents into goals. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can finally break this streak and add a World Cup goal to his impressive career stats in the 2026 tournament.
Raúl Jiménez’s ascent in the ranks of Mexican football reflects the dedication and persistence that characterize successful athletes. As he continues to close the gap on Borgetti and Hernández, the football community watches with bated breath. His goal scoring prowess, club performances, and the prospect of future tournaments could secure his legacy as one of the greatest Mexican forwards of all time.
In summary, Raúl Jiménez's goal against Panama is more than just a point on the scoreboard; it's a significant chapter in his career and Mexican football history. With ambitions clear, the star forward seems poised to keep pushing boundaries, scoring goals, and furthering the legacy left by his predecessors in the national team.
