Mexico began their CONCACAF Gold Cup title defence with a narrow 3–2 victory over the Dominican Republic in Group A action on Saturday night in Inglewood, California.

Edson Álvarez produced a standout performance, registering both a goal and an assist to inspire the Mexicans to a winning start.

The defending champions opened the scoring just before the interval. Orbelín Pineda delivered a precise cross into the box, which Álvarez met with a powerful header to find the back of the net in the 44th minute.

Mexico doubled their lead only two minutes into the second half. Raúl Jiménez found space and fired home with a right-footed finish to put his side 2–0 up.

However, tournament debutants Dominican Republic responded admirably. In the 51st minute, Peter González reduced the deficit with a well-placed left-footed strike.

Mexico quickly restored their two-goal advantage from a set piece. Alexis Vega's corner was met by Álvarez, whose header deflected off César Montes and into the net in the 53rd minute, making it 3–1.

The Dominican Republic continued to fight back and were rewarded when Edison Azcona’s right-footed effort took a deflection off a defender, bringing the score to 3–2.

Despite late pressure, Mexico held on to secure all three points, while the Dominican Republic can take encouragement from a spirited display in their Gold Cup debut.