The Mexico vs Nigeria friendly held at the massive Reliant Stadium in Houston on Friday May 31, 2013 ended with a final score of 2-2. Mexico played down to 10 men for most of the match, as Pablo Barrera was red-carded early on due to a handball in the area. However, Mexico played well, generated several scoring opportunities, and should overall be glad with the result, and most importantly, the playing style.
In its previous 3 World Cup qualifying matches, Mexico had struggled with its offense, scoring just 2 goals in 3 games. The Mexico vs Nigeria match was a prime testing ground for Chepo’s squad, which needed to display some offensive prowess. Mexico did just that, scoring 2 (both by Chicharito) and generating some 4-5 other clear scoring opportunities.
The main takeaway of this Mexico vs Nigeria friendly should be Mexico’s resilience, while down to 10 men, and the constant generation of scoring opportunities. If Mexico can repeat this in its upcoming qualifying matches against Jamaica, Panama, and Costa Rica, they should be able to pick up some badly needed points.
Mexico will then move on to have a busy month of June, with 3 upcoming CONCACAF qualifying matches and participation in the Confederations Cup. The Mexico vs Nigeria match was a good test, and it appears Mexico has passed it.
