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Raúl Jiménez Returns From Near-Fatal Skull Fracture to Lead Mexico at World Cup

His survival and months of rehabilitation have turned him into Mexico’s central striker and a focal point of their knockout run.

Overview

  • On November 29, 2020, Jiménez was knocked unconscious in a clash of heads, suffered a fractured skull and intracranial bleeding, and underwent emergency surgery that doctors later called a miracle.
  • He missed about eight months recovering, returned to play with a protective headguard and followed medical advice that limited some high‑risk roles and required him to rebuild confidence with headers.
  • After several seasons rebuilding his club career, managers have trusted Jiménez to play as a complete centre‑forward who links play and creates chances as well as scoring.
  • In June 2026 he scored his first World Cup goal and has re‑established himself as Javier Aguirre’s No. 9 as Mexico advance into the knockout stage and prepare to face Ecuador.
  • Beyond the pitch his comeback has become a symbol of resilience for teammates and fans and could shape Mexico’s bid to reach the quarterfinals because his hold‑up play and experience change how the team attacks.