In a game marred by heavy rainfall, Mexico suffered a 4-3 group stage game defeat against the United States. The defeat means Mexico can only get second place, as the US clinches first place in the group.
After a solid first half for both teams, a very bad start in the second half by Mexico gave the US the ability to take the lead, which they would increase off a counter. Mexico tried to level the score but could only pull within one late in the game.
Mexico will now face Jamaica on Saturday, needing only a draw to go through but a defeat will eliminate them.
The game was always going to be a tough one for both sides, and it certainly lived up to its potential. Mexico took advantage with a long pass to Roberto de la Rosa, who took control of the ball and slot it through the keeper.
Mexico then started sitting back as the weather became worse and worse and the US pushed back. Off a counter, US forward Josh Sargent made a great play over the head of defender Carlos Robles and the slot it home.
After a scramble in the area, Sargent got a lucky rebound and was able to score his second to give the US the lead.
In the final minutes of the half, a great cross by Daniel Lopez was headed in by De La Rosa to tie the score at two goals a piece.
The second half had a bad start for Mexico as the US took control of the game. Even though the rain had stopped, it seemed the U.S. tactics of pressuring Mexico constantly didn't start working until the second period.
Finally, Blaine Ferri was given all the time in the world to take a shot outside the area, which rolled into the net for the 3-2 lead.
After that, Mexico took control of the game but failed to create chances. Off a counter attack, Ayo Akinola was able to score. Akinola, who was a thorn on Mexico's side because of his speed, blew past the defenders to score and seemingly finish the match.
Mexico started having more control of the game after that, and in extra time was finally able to create danger when a cross was sent into the US net by US defender Jaylin Lindsey (the third own goal scored for Mexico in the tournament). Still, it was too late and the US held on for the win.
The defeat complicates things for Mexico who will now face Jamaica in a fight for the second spot. Still, although better than El Salvador, Mexico is talented enough that they should beat Jamaica and also have the benefit that a draw will give them a ticket to the next round. The biggest hit of the loss is to Mexico's ego as they failed against not only their biggest rival historically, but against the best team in the competition besides them. If they both play to their potential, both teams should play each other in the final, but Mexico needs to take a hard look at themselves and this game to get a different result, should they meet again.