Mexico 0, Panama 0: Lackadaisical and uninspired

Torrado has been Mexico’s weakest player in WCQ (Getty)

 

Mexico headed to Panama for their second WCQ game of June. Mexico was coming off a big win against Jamaica, and spirits were high coming into this game.

Mexico started off the first 20 minutes with a lot of pressure and a few good attacks. Yet, Mexico showed a major lack in the attack, mostly thanks to the midfield. Torrado was El Tri’s weakest link. Poor passes, poor defending, and just overall sub-par play.

Mexico had a few close chances, but nothing found the back of the net. There was a very sloppy tackle on Hernández in the box, but the referee refused to call a penalty.

The lack of inspiration lead Mexico into the half at 0-0. The second half was not too much more exciting. The game was made up of a lot of possession for Mexico, but most of which lead to nothing.

Before the game, I predicted that Panama would come out swinging, but they were hardly threatening. They did have a close shot which was heroically saved by Corona. However, even if Panama scored, it should not have counted as Chicharito was choked on the play.

Chepo made very strange substitutions to say the least. Reyna subbed in for Giovani and was fairly invisible. Then Flores came into the game which was good, but for the wrong player. Chepo left Meza in and took off Aquino. Meza was not very effective and needed to come off.

Lastly, Chepo let Torrado play the full 90. It was a very frustrating move as Torrado looked like a ghost for Mexico. He should not be starting when Herrera is on the roster. Mexico once again claimed a draw at 0-0. This puts Mexico in third place in WCQ, but to make matters worse, Mexico has played one extra game than the other top-4 teams.

Mexico is in a must win situation going into Tuesdays match against Costa Rica, who won today against Honduras. Not only does Mexico need three points in WCQ, but they need positive energy heading to Brazil for the Confederations cup.

Vamos Mexico!

Mexico 1, Jamaica 0: Por tres puntos

A great header from Aldo gave Mexico their first victory in 2013 (AP)

 

Mexico’s ugly draw streak is officially over thanks to a 1-0 victory over Jamaica. The previous meeting between the two teams resulted in a 0-0 draw in Estadio Azteca.

Mexico knew three points were crucial, if not mandatory. Being a heavy favorite at the end of the third round of CONCACAF WCQ, the lack of victories was becoming an ugly trend for El Tri fans.

The first half of the game was virtually a repeat of the match earlier this year. Very few chances were created and Mexico actually looked very lazy. It was very frustrating to see, because the game against Nigeria looked to be a breathe of fresh air, as Mexico played with fluidity and poise (even with 10 men).

Yet, thanks to a great goal from Aldo de Nigris, Mexico took a 1-0 lead in the second half. To add, Corona was an absolute force in the net for El Tri, making several clutch stops.

Mexico would find themselves with more possession and oportunities to score, but Donovan Ricketts was a minor savior for Jamaica. A few of his saves were the difference from Jamaica staying in the match or going down 2-0, maybe 3-0.

After 90, Mexico finally was able to celebrate their first victory of 2013. Hopefully the first of many.

Up next is a very difficult road game against Panama on Friday June 7th. The match will begin at 10:00 P.M. ET.

Mexico currently is atop the CONCACAF with six points, but needs to make sure they stay levelheaded to keep it as such.

Vamos Mexico!