Mexico will face the winners of the England-Congo DR clash in the Round of 16 on July 6…reports Asian Lite News desk
Co-hosts Mexico ended a 40-year wait for a FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory with a commanding 2-0 win over Ecuador to book their place in the Round of 16 at the Mexico City Stadium on Wednesday.
Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored in the first half as El Tri produced a dominant display to register their first World Cup knockout triumph since defeating Bulgaria during the 1986 tournament, which Mexico also hosted.
The match, delayed by an hour due to adverse weather, saw Mexico make an explosive start. Gilberto Mora, Luis Romo and Jimenez all came close before Ecuador threatened through John Yeboah, whose effort struck the outside of the post.
Mexico finally broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Roberto Alvarado’s perfectly timed pass released Quinones, who raced through and fired an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Hernan Galindez.
Quinones then turned provider just after the half-hour mark, setting up Jimenez to double Mexico’s advantage and put the hosts firmly in control.
Despite Ecuador enjoying more possession after the break, Mexico’s disciplined defence, marshalled by Cesar Montes and Johan Vasquez, held firm to record a fourth consecutive clean sheet of the tournament. Goalkeeper Raul Rangel also impressed with another assured performance.
Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora became only the second 17-year-old to start a World Cup knockout match after Brazilian legend Pele in 1958.
Named Player of the Match, Quinones credited the team’s collective effort.
“Teamwork is what matters most today. You can stand out as an individual, but that’s only possible because of the team’s great performance,” he said.
Mexico will face the winners of the England-Congo DR clash in the Round of 16 on July 6.
