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Mexico's generational talent also disappeared before our eyes.
During the match against Mexico on Saturday night, 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora came on as a substitute and was nearly wiped out in a shocking studs-up tackle by Nández — when the ball wasn’t seriously 'in play.' Rather than a welcome to senior international soccer, it was a brutal initiation.
Mora, already being hailed as one of Mexico’s brightest young talents, had barely settled into the match when Nández charged in recklessly, catching the teenager with dangerous high contact.
The challenge was so severe that many believed it deserved a red card for serious foul play. Instead, the referee only gave Nández a yellow card. Even more concerning: VAR was in use, but for some reason, the incident was not upgraded to a red.
¡Esa era roja clarísima! ‼️
Tremenda plancha de Nández sobre Gilberto Mora ❌¡Disfruta de todos los partidos de la Selección Mexicana en VIX! #tacosvsAsado pic.twitter.com/sWuHBDTyKW
— TUDN USA (@TUDNUSA) November 16, 2025
The decision sparked immediate frustration from Mexican fans and pundits. Had Nández been sent off, momentum could have dramatically shifted in Mexico’s favor at Estadio TSM Corona, giving the home side a numerical and psychological edge. Instead, the game limped on to a 0–0 draw, leaving both nations with little to show.
Mexico now turns its attention to a tough clash against Paraguay on Tuesday, while Uruguay prepares for a showdown with the USMNT.
