Mexico and Uruguay Draw in Friendly Match Ahead of World Cup

In a closely contested friendly match held on November 15, 2025, in Torreón, Mexico, the national teams of Mexico and Uruguay played to a 0-0 draw. This match served as a preparation for both teams as they gear up for participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Mexico's defense showed significant improvement, managing to keep a clean sheet for the first time in their last three outings, which included a heavy 4-0 defeat against Colombia during the previous international break. Under the guidance of coach Javier Aguirre, the Mexican squad demonstrated a solid defensive performance throughout the match.

The most promising opportunity for Mexico came from 17-year-old Gilberto Mora, who nearly scored with a well-placed cross-shot inside the box that narrowly missed the target defended by Uruguay's Santiago Mele. The high stakes of the match led to a heated atmosphere, particularly when Uruguay's Maximiliano Araújo confronted Mexican defender César Montes over a controversial play that the match official, Panama's Fernando Morón, deemed not worthy of a penalty.

Despite the lack of goals, Aguirre expressed satisfaction with his team's attitude and intensity during the game, acknowledging that while they were unable to secure a win, they faced a quality opponent and delivered a commendable performance. The match resulted in an even historical record between the two teams, with each nation now boasting eight victories and eight draws.

This draw allowed Mexico to break a streak of three consecutive losses against Uruguay in previous friendlies, where they had suffered defeats by scores of 4-1, 3-0, and 4-0 on earlier occasions.

Uruguay entered the match missing key players, including forward Darwin Núñez and midfielder Federico Valverde, both of whom play in top-tier leagues. Argentine coach Marcelo Bielsa utilized players from Liga MX, including forwards Brian Rodríguez and Rodrigo Aguirre, as well as goalkeeper Mele.

Bielsa acknowledged that his team did not meet expectations, stating that Uruguay played below their potential while Mexico exceeded what was anticipated. The match featured limited scoring opportunities, with both sides struggling to capitalize.

Mexico exhibited a more proactive approach in pressing high up the pitch, leading to a few chances to take the lead. Raúl Jiménez came close on two occasions, but his attempts were thwarted by Mele. Uruguay, on the other hand, posed minimal threat, with their best chance arriving early in the second half through a shot from Facundo Torres, which was effectively saved by Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel.

During the first half's additional time, Mexico had to replace veteran winger Hirving Lozano due to a muscle issue, bringing Mora back into the game. Mora had previously been left off the U17 squad for the World Cup in Qatar to join the senior team for this year's final call-up.

Bielsa praised Mora's maturity and effectiveness on the field, noting that despite his youth and smaller stature, he played with a level of understanding and practicality that belied his age.

Mexico's year will conclude with another friendly match against Paraguay on Tuesday, while Uruguay will also wrap up their 2025 campaign against the United States in Tampa Bay.