Mexico has found its young hero! 17-year-old Mora matches a feat on Pelé's level

Gilberto Mora etched his name into World Cup history by starting for Mexico’s national team.

Details: At just 17 years and 259 days old, Mora became the second-youngest footballer ever to start in a World Cup finals match.

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According to OptaJorge, only Pelé was younger in such a role. The Brazilian legend started a World Cup finals match in 1958 at the age of 17 years and 239 days.

This achievement makes Mora’s emergence all the more spectacular. The young Mexican now finds himself alongside one of the greatest names in football history—before even turning 18.

For the Mexican national team, this is much more than just a statistical milestone; it’s a powerful sign of a new generation on the rise. From now on, all eyes will be on the 17-year-old sensation.

Reminder: Legendary Mexico goalkeeper announces retirement after the FIFA World Cup