Mexico have failed to qualify for the round of 16 despite defeating Saudi Arabia 2-1. Saudi Arabia’s World Cup dream has ended, but they’ll always remember that famous win in Lusial, beating Argentina 2-1.
Henry Martín opened the scoring for Mexico before Luis Chávez curled home a magnificent free-kick from 32-yards out. Certainly an early contender for the goal of the tournament.
As Mexico pushed for a third goal, which would have ensured qualification from the group, Saudi Arabia scored a 95th minute goal through Al Dawsari to make it 2-1, which ended Mexico’s hopes.
Key Performers:
Hirving Lozano, 8 : The 27-year-old Napoli Winger was Mexico’s main outlet in attack. His electrifying pace paired with his quick feet caused problems for Saudi Arabian defenders throughout the entire game.
Luis Chávez, 8 : Chávez scored Mexico’s second goal of the evening and almost added a third after striking a brilliant left-footed free-kick in the opposite corner to his first goal, but Al-Owais saved well. His energy and tenacity in midfield gave Mexico a platform to allow the likes of Lozano freedom to attack. A brilliant performance from the Pachuca midfielder.
Mohammed Khalil Al-Owais, 7 : The Saudi Arabian goalkeeper was forced to make several saves and had he not been there, the result would have been rather humiliating for Saudi Arabia.
Henry Martín, 7: The 30-year-old forward broke the deadlock in the 47th minute which ignited the onslaught of pressure throughout the rest of the second-half. Martín took his goal well as he was the first to react from a deflected corner.
Saudi Arabia – 1
Mohammed Khalil Al Owais, 7
S. Alganham, 4
A. Al-Amri, 4
H. Al Tambakti, 5
Ali Al Bulayhi, 5
Saud Abdulhamid, 5
Firas Al Birakan, 5
Ali Al-Hassan, 5
M. I. Kanno, 6
S. Al Dawsari, 5
Saleh Al-Shehri, 5
Others: R. M. Sharahili 5, Abdullah Madu 5, Abdulrahman Alobud 5.
Mexico – 2
Guillermo Ochoa, 5
Jorge Sánchez, 5
Cesar Montes, 5
Hector Moreno, 5
Jesus Gallardo, 5
Orbelin Pineda, 5
Edson Álvarez, 5
Luis Chávez, 8
Hirving Lozano, 8
Henry Martín, 7
Alexis Vega, 6
Others : Uriel Antuna 5, Raul Jimenez 5, Carlos Rodriguez 5.
Mark Marston | GWFN
