Mexico make history as Rafa Marquez hands United States first defeat in Columbus

Rafael Marquez scored a late header as Mexico earned their first ever victory in Columbus, Ohio with a 2-1 win on Friday.

Much of the pre-game focus was on the United States’ perfect record over Mexico in Columbus, Ohio.

But Jesus “Tecatito” Corona led a strong start from the visitors when the FC Porto winger struck the woodwork in the 10th minute.

Mexico’s lively opening was eventually rewarded with the opening goal ten minutes later. Miguel Layun picked out the bottom corner of the net from long range to give El Tri the lead.

Mexico continued to control the game but were stunned when Andres Guardado had to make way for Carlos Salcedo through injury.

It was then the United States’ turn to suffer an injury, as Tim Howard injured himself before the break.

In the second half, the United States posed the greater threat and equalized four minutes after the restart when Bobby Wood finished behind Alfredo Talavera for the 1-1.

The Stars and Stripes pushed for a winner, albeit without finding any clear chances on goal.

With just minutes remaining in the match, Rafael Marquez appeared unmarked to head home a Miguel Layun corner and give Mexico an emphatic win in Columbus.

The result was Mexico’s first win in American soil in World Cup qualifiers since 1972. Next, El Tri travel to Panama City on Tuesday to take on Panama at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez in their second game of the CONCACAF Hexagonal.