City’s midfield maestro had enjoyed a tremendous tournament culminating in leading her nation to the showpiece by netting five goals en route to the meeting with their North American opponents.
This included a swathe of outstanding strikes containing a 40-yard rocket, an audacious chip and a sublime free-kick.
Castellanos’ tally wasn’t bettered as the curtain fell on the 2023 competition, meaning she claimed the prestigious Golden Boot award - despite La Vinotinto being edged in the final after extra-time.
Chances were few and far between during the first half, as both sides were trying to find their feet in the El Salvador heat, resulting in a goalless opening 45 minutes.
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However, it didn’t take long for the game’s first goal to arrive after the interval - as Mexico’s Stephany Mayor collected the ball just inside the box and drilled low into the bottom corner in the 48th minute.
Undeterred from falling behind, Ysaura Viso bundled home a cross from the left-hand-side to equalise for Venezeuela less than 20 minutes later – forcing the additional period after full-time.
Nervous energy continued to build in extra-time as the first half ended with the scoreline still reading 1-1.
With the clock ticking down and a penalty shootout looming, Mexico snatched a late winner when Natalia Mauleon prodded past Nayluisa Cáceres in the 116th minute.
