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Mexico overwhelms New Zealand
Mexico warmed up for defense of its CONCACAF Gold Cup in much the same fashion that ‘El Tri’ walked off with the title two years ago — in a rout.
Mexico, which beat the U.S. 5-0 to claim the 2009 cup, delivered a similar undressing to New Zealand at Invesco Field on Wednesday night. Even with the team’s best forward resting in preparation of the start of Gold Cup play, Mexico had more than enough firepower against the All Whites.
Playing on the pitch that looked half dead, Mexico scored early, often and looked ready to add more. El Tricolores sauntered out of Denver with a 3-0 win that flattered the visitors from the Antipodes.
Warning Shots: For the other teams gathering for the Gold Cup, it was a warning that this Mexico squad is playing the game with speed and organization. Giovani Dos Santos scored twice and Aldo de Nigris added the third as Mexico took command in the first half.
In fact, Mexico was so in control that the side opened the second half by substituting four players, including all three that had supported de Nigris in the attack. This gave the team a chance to try out some younger players, and it also brought the scoring opportunities down.
Next Up: Mexico had to leave Denver feeling confident ahead of the tournament. Not only did El Tri dismantle the Kiwis, but Mexico gets its best forward, Javier Hernandez, back for Sunday’s match.
Mexico, which begins Gold Cup tournament play in Dallas on Sunday against El Salavador, tied Ecuador 1-1 on Saturday in Seattle. New Zealand’s last match was a 1-1 tie with China in March and the team will next play a friendly against Australia, also on Sunday.
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