HOUSTON — Mexico defeated the United States 2-1 to retain the Concacaf Gold Cup and lift the title for a record-extending 10th time yesterday.

A 77th-minute header from Mexico skipper Edson Alvarez completed a come-from-behind victory after a typically hard-fought tussle between the North American arch-rivals and 2026 World Cup co-hosts.

The win was no less than Mexico deserved after dominating for long periods against Mauricio Pochettino’s inexperienced USA side, who went into the tournament missing several first-choice regulars.

Alvarez’s winner capped a fairytale return to Houston after he had limped off in tears at the same venue during Mexico’s opening game of the Copa America last year.

“It’s a very emotional moment for me,” the West Ham midfielder said afterwards.

“Ever since I got to Houston, I’ve been thinking about that heartbreak. I just asked life to give me one more joy.”

The USA got off to a dream start when center-back Chris Richards headed the hosts into a fourth-minute lead in front of just under 71,000 fans at NRG Stadium.

Sebastian Berhalter’s perfectly flighted free-kick sowed panic in the Mexican defence and Crystal Palace defender Richards stooped for a powerful header which cannoned off the underside of the bar and over the line.

That early effort was to be the USA’s best chance of a first half that Mexico controlled for the most part.

Mexico’s 16-year-old prodigy Gilberto Mora threatened to grab an equaliser in the 24th minute, but his curling shot was saved by USA goalkeeper Matt Freese.

Three minutes later Mexico drew level.

Marcel Ruiz threaded a superb pass to veteran striker Raul Jimenez, who crashed an unstoppable shot into the roof of the net.