Mexico completed a perfect World Cup group-stage campaign with a 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic, extending their winning run to three matches and ending their opponents’ hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.
Already assured of top spot in Group A, the co-hosts delivered a dominant second-half display at the Azteca Stadium as goals from Mateo Chavez, Julian Quinones and substitute Alvaro Fidalgo secured another convincing victory. The result left the Czech Republic bottom of the group and eliminated from the tournament.
After a sluggish first half offered few clear opportunities, Mexico broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Luis Romo’s pass released Chavez, who calmly slotted past goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
The hosts doubled their advantage six minutes later. Youngster Gilberto Mora sparked the move with a driving run before Jorge Sanchez’s effort created a scramble in the penalty area, allowing Quinones to poke home his second goal of the tournament.
Fidalgo completed the scoring deep into stoppage time with a powerful strike from 18 metres that flew into the top corner, putting the finishing touches on another impressive performance by Javier Aguirre’s side.
The Czech Republic, needing a positive result to keep their qualification hopes alive, started brightly but failed to convert their chances. Denis Visinsky squandered an early opening, while Mexico’s first effort did not arrive until the 35th minute when Israel Reyes sent an overhead kick wide.
The evening also saw veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa make a late substitute appearance, earning his 154th international cap and featuring at his sixth World Cup.
“I think the team played a good game,” Mexico coach Javier Aguirre said. “Ultimately, we always have a few things to work on, but tonight is a good night for everyone.”
Mexico will face a third-placed team from Groups C, E, F, H or I in the last 32 on Tuesday, with the match again taking place at the Azteca Stadium, where they remain unbeaten in nine World Cup matches.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
