Mexico vs. Brazil: El Tri Loss Ends CONCACAF’s World Cup

By Jayson Love - July 03, 2018

For the seventh straight time at a FIFA World Cup, Mexico was eliminated in the round of 16. This time, it was Brazil that knocked El Tri out of the event, leaving CONCACAF no chance at a championship.

The only CONCACAF squad to ever medal was the United States who took third in 1930, and no team from the region has ever reached the final.

Mexico had high hopes to compete for the title, but was simply overmatched by Brazil and was defeated by the 2-0 scoreline.

Despite having 54% of possession, Brazil had the best chances. The Brazilians outshot Mexico 21-13. Including 10 shots on frame.

After an action packed, but goalless first half, Brazil opened its account in the 51st minute. Willian worked himself free on the left side of Guillermo Ochoa’s box, and played a low cross towards two unmarked attackers. It slid through to Neymar who deftly poked home to give his side the advantage.

Brazil would double its lead in the 89th minute when Firmino completed a perfect counter attack as Mexico pressed for an equalizer.

Neymar took a through ball and slotted one towards goal, Ochoa was able to get a piece, but an unmarked Firmino buried the rebound and the celebration was on for the South Americans.

With Mexico’s exit, and Costa Rica and Panama eliminated prior to the round of 16, the region’s run is now over at World Cup 2018. It remains to be seen if this is the last time Rafa Marquez will don a Mexican shirt. The El Tri legend got the start in the midfield with Juan Osorio having to revamp his squad with Hector Moreno unavailable due to yellow card accumulation. Marquez has been a member of the senior team since he was reportedly accidentally called up to the senior team in 1997. He has represented Mexico in every World Cup since 2002.