On a rainy night at Estadio Azteca, Mexico booked their ticket to Russia in 2018. There were chances for both teams in the first half, but Mexico were the better team even though the first 45 ended 0-0. In the 53rd minute, Hirving Lozano broke the deadlock to help book Mexico’s place. The singing of “Cielito Lindo” could be heard throughout the Azteca by the end of the match.
Here are four takeaways from Mexico’s match versus Panama.
Mexico vs Panama World Cup Qualifying: Four Takeaways
Ticket Punched
Mexico becomes the fifth team to claim a spot for the World Cup. Four years ago, Mexico was struggling to qualify. Since then, manager Juan Carlos Osorio has turned the qualification process around. Osorio took El Tri through qualification meeting the federation’s goal. With the goal met, will Osorio still be under a lot of pressure and criticism? Either way, the press and fans will still criticize Osorio. The ultimate goal is still the “quinto partido.” This will be the true test for Osorio
Lack Of Finishing
Mexico finished the match with 11 shots, four of them being on target. El Tri missed plenty of chances to find the back of the net. Javier Aquino had all the time in the world in front of goal but his shot went way over the crossbar. Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez had a clear chance but put it wide right. Hector Herrera had some chances too, especially his free kick. With Mexico’s ticket booked, the team needs to show improvement in the goal-scoring department.
Players Stepped Up
The biggest player to step up tonight was Jesus ‘Tecatico’ Corona. His presence was clearly missed from the Confederations Cup and he showed everybody why tonight. Hector Herrera was superb in the midfield as well. Together, they connected the team and pulled the strings. Diego Reyes was good on the backline along with Hugo Ayala and Nestor Araujo.
The Hirving Lozano Effect
Hirving ‘El Chucky’ Lozano is in the form of his life right now. Lozano’s recent run with PSV Eindhoven has been a fantastic start to his career in Europe. Coming on for Jurgen Damm in the 51st minute, it only took Lozano two minutes to make an impact on the game with his game-winning goal. Lozano’s summer move to the Netherland appears to be paying off. It will be interesting to see his role with El Tri moving forward.
Overall this team is playing good quality soccer. Sure there are some mistakes leading to Panama having some chances on goal. Guillermo Ochoa proves time and time again that he is a great security blanket behind the backline finishing the game with five saves. It’s a long road until Russia but it should be an exciting road ahead for Osorio and El Tri. Mexico’s next game is September 5th against Costa Rica.
