| Keyword |
Description |
| Assist |
A pass that helps a teammate score a goal |
| Curse |
A pattern of bad luck that people think keeps a team from winning |
| Midfielder |
A player who helps on defense and attack in the middle of the field |
Gilberto Mora is a 16-year-old soccer player from Mexico who gives fans hope that their team can finally go farther in the World Cup, where they have often lost before the fifth game, which many people call a “curse.” He plays for Club Tijuana and became the youngest player to win a big international trophy with the national team, and at the U-20 World Cup in Chile, he scored and made assists against strong teams like Brazil and Spain, even netting a winner against Morocco. Fans are excited and make funny memes about him, and he has nicknames like “El Chamaco” and “Morita,” which show how much people believe in his talent.
Before a game against Chile, some people made jokes about his last name (which also means “blackberry”), but Mexico won 4–1, and Mora made two assists. Later, Mexico lost to Argentina in the quarterfinals, so the “curse” was not broken yet, but Mora is a smart midfielder who stays calm and will have more chances to help his country in future tournaments.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Fan |
Fanático |
| International |
Internacional |
| Meme |
Meme |
Time to discuss
- Should one young star carry a whole team’s hopes, or should everyone share the pressure?
- What matters most in big games: talent, teamwork, or coaching?
- How should fans and media treat teen athletes online?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Describe a time you helped a team reach a goal and what you learned.
- Explain how Mora shows perseverance and good sportsmanship.
