Mexican starlet’s Liga MX lift-off
After helping Mexico to victory at this summer’s Gold Cup, Gilberto Mora has continued to kick on at Liga MX club Tijuana.
This summer with the Mexican national team marked a turning point for 16-year-old Gilberto Mora. Since then, he’s become a fixture in Sebastián “Loco” Abreu’s starting XI at Club Tijuana.
After lifting the Gold Cup with El Tri, the next step for Mora was to cement his place at the club level. Having made his debut for Xolos in August 2024, the Apertura 2025 was shaping up to be his breakout tournament - and so far, he’s delivered. With seven starts and four goal contributions, Mora is making a strong case as one of Liga MX’s most exciting young midfielders.
A key piece in Xolos’ attack
Mora has become a vital part of Tijuana’s offensive setup. Of the 14 goals scored by the border-town club this season, he’s had a hand in four. That includes three goals - impressive for a non-striker - and one assist, numbers that have fans buzzing with excitement.
He’s already surpassed his output from the entire Clausura 2025, where he played 16 matches and scored just once. This is a different Gilberto Mora - more confident, more decisive, and clearly more influential.
Mora’s goal involvements in the Apertura 2025
Mora is emerging as one of the standout players of the Apertura 2025. His first goal of the tournament came in Matchday 5 against Pachuca. He followed that up with a brace against Chivas in the very next game - his first full 90-minute appearance of the season.
Most recently, he played a pivotal role in Tijuana’s draw with Atlético San Luis, providing the assist for Jackson Porozo’s equalizer in the closing moments of Matchday 8.
All eyes on Mora ahead of the U-20 World Cup
With the U-20 World Cup just around the corner, Mora is one of Mexico’s top prospects to watch. He’s expected to anchor a midfield that has fans and analysts alike dreaming big. But the road ahead won’t be easy - El Tri has landed in the tournament’s “Group of Death.”
Mexico will face Brazil, Morocco, and Spain in Group C - a brutally tough draw. Mora and fellow standout Elías Montiel will be key to Mexico’s hopes of advancing. Their campaign kicks off on Sunday, September 28, against the mighty Seleção.
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