Gilberto Mora shining for Mexico at FIFA U-20 World Cup
Credit: Getty Images
Tijuana Xolos’ young star Gilberto Mora has been one of the biggest revelations for world football at the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
It is not a surprise for those that follow Club Tijuana or Mexican soccer, but the world is now taking note of this youngster’s immense talent.
Mexico was drawn into a very tough group with Brazil, Spain and Morocco, but managed to prevail. The Liga MX-based squad pulled off 2-2 draws against Brazil and Spain, then went on to defeat Morocco 1-0.
Gilberto Mora provided an assist against Brazil and dazzled with a brace against Spain. The 16-year-old Xolos’ star also scored the winning goal against Morocco that landed Mexico in the round of 16.
🇲🇽🎥 GILBERTO MORA [2008 – TIJUANA] vs. CHILE
Octavos de final – Mundial U20
Por: @SebaEsquerre
Talento generacional que volvió a destacar, mostrando una gran sensibilidad en los desmarques e inteligencia para interactuar con sus compañeros, tanto en corto como a lo ancho del… pic.twitter.com/HrmKWOFK3E
— Scouten (@ScoutenFootball) October 8, 2025
Mexico had a tough matchup against hosts Chile in the first round of the knockout phase. However, despite the home-field advantage, Chile did not put up much of a fight.
Mexico came away with a massive 4-1 win against La Roja and Mora provided an assist on the first goal by Tahiel Jimenez. Gil played 76 minutes in the match and provided 36 accurate passes along with four key passes and three successful dribbles from three attempts.
Mora also won all six of his ground duels and really drove this offense to victory past the World Cup hosts.
Before this stellar World Cup run, Mora was already on a magnificent run with Club Tijuana in Liga MX. The 16-year-old midfielder scored three goals and provided an assist in Xolos’ last four league games.
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The Xoloitzcuintles have been overachieving this season even with the recent absence of Gilberto Mora. However, the young player can only benefit the club once he returns to Liga MX play.
For now, the Mexico U-20 national team wait for an opponent to face in the quarterfinals of the competition.
Francisco, 28, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego FC, San Diego Wave. I have covered Liga MX, MLS, Mexico National Team, USWNT, Copa América and European clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.