Mexico 1-1 Belgium, International Friendly Highlights: Red Devils And El Tri Play Out A Frustrating Draw

Hello, football fans! This is the start of our live blog covering Mexico's friendly match against Belgium in Chicago. Stay tuned for pre-match updates and line-ups as they are released.

El Tri fans in the US can watch the match on FOX One or stream it via the FOX Sports App. Spanish coverage is available on TUDN USA and Univision, while subscribers to ViX can also stream the game live.

Mexico headlines Group A as a proud co-host for the 2026 tournament. They are set to face South Africa, South Korea, and Czechia. With the advantage of a home crowd in Mexico City, they are the clear favorites to top the group and secure a knockout spot.

And the action is underway between FIFA World Cup 2026 co-hosts Mexico and Belgium. Let's see who scores the first goal.

Looking to weather Mexico’s relentless high press, Belgium is shifting gears. The Red Devils are focused on finding more rhythm and sparking rapid transitions, specifically trying to sharpen the connection between Kevin De Bruyne’s vision and Lois Openda’s explosive pace.

Mexico snatch the lead from a set-piece! After Brian Gutierrez whipped a dangerous corner into the area, a frantic Belgium failed to clear their lines. Jorge Sanchez pounced on the loose rebound, ruthlessly firing home to punish the hesitation and put Mexico in front.

Mexico are knocking on the door again. Brian Gutierrez turned beautifully to slide a slick pass into the path of Julian Quinones, whose diagonal burst into the box ended with a powerful strike. However, the shot lacked the placement to beat the keeper, who parried it away comfortably.

The whistle blows at Soldier Field with Mexico firmly in control and holding a deserved half-time lead. El Tri has simply outworked Belgium, dominating the opening period with a relentless high press that has seen them win 58% of their duels.

The stats tell the story of the first 45 minutes: Mexico has peppered the goal with three shots on target, while a stifled Belgium has yet to test the keeper. The Red Devils head to the tunnel needing a total tactical reset to match Mexico's intensity and claw their way back into this contest.

Belgium are level! The second half has barely begun, and Dodi Lukebakio has already produced a moment of magic. After picking up a pass from Youri Tielemans on the flank, Lukebakio showcased his flair by cutting inside and unleashing a spectacular curling strike that left the keeper helpless.

Belgium rings the changes with a massive five-man substitution to refresh their lineup. Lois Openda, Timothy Castagne, Axel Witsel, Youri Tielemans, and Malick Fofana Godts all make way. In their place, the Red Devils introduce a wealth of talent and energy, with Charles De Ketelaere, Thomas Meunier, Nicolas Raskin, Amadou Onana, and Jeremy Doku entering the fray.

The tide has shifted significantly in the second period, with the contest becoming a far more balanced affair as Belgium finds its footing. Following a flurry of tactical substitutions, the Red Devils have rediscovered their spark, appearing considerably more aggressive and intentional in their forward play.

Much of that renewed energy centers on Jeremy Doku. The winger has been an immediate livewire since his introduction. His explosive change of pace and willingness to take on defenders are causing persistent headaches for the Mexican backline, providing the cutting edge Belgium lacked in the first half.

The final whistle blows at Soldier Field, bringing an end to a pulsating encounter as Mexico and Belgium share the spoils in a hard-fought 1-1 draw.

While El Tri dominated the opening half with their trademark intensity and high press, the Red Devils showcased their resilience, finding a spectacular response early in the second period.