After an error on a throw-in, Mexico’s Raúl Jimenez easily slotted past Dayne St. Clair, giving Mexico a 1-0 lead they never looked back. It harkened back to times all too familiar for Canada: Faltering in overexcitement amid high-pressure moments rather than approaching with poise and experience.

Historically, Mexico has dominated Canada in international play, but the Canucks have given El Tri a run for their money in recent years. Canada drew and defeated Mexico in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying four years ago, beating Mexico for the first time in over two decades.

Canada entered the Concacaf Nations League finals looking to make a statement, but it'll exit with a familiar lack of satisfaction.