World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers: Mexico escape with narrow win over Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic - Mexico 88-89

Mexico edged the Dominican Republic 89–88 in a dramatic World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifier that came down to the final possessions. The Dominican Republic dominated the first half with strong offensive flow, taking a 54–47 lead at the break after a 28-point opening quarter and another productive second period. But the game swung sharply in the third quarter, where Mexico seized momentum with a 20–9 run, flipping the scoreboard and tightening the contest heading into the fourth. The final quarter was a tense, back-and-forth battle, with the Dominican Republic pushing hard to recover the lead, but Mexico’s steadier execution and timely scoring allowed them to hold on. Despite a late surge from the hosts, Mexico escaped with the one-point victory in a thrilling finish.
Yahir Gael Bonilla (204-G/F-2003) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Francisco Cruz (192-G-1989, college: Wyoming) poured in 19. Andres Feliz (188-PG-1997, college: Illinois) replied with 22 points in the losing effort.