Mexico 1-0 Panama
Mexico is on its way to the World Cup finals in Russia after Hirving Lozano climbed off the bench to grab the winner in a narrow win over Panama.
Panama made it hard for the hosts. Handicap betting odds had suggested a more comfortable win when Hernan Gomez’ side arrived at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico on the back of three consecutive draws in qualifying football games. Still with a glimmer of hope to progress they really needed a win.
It was a tough ask, but in a tight first half contest, they matched the hosts as the teams went in level. But it was Mexico who struck early in the second half when Jose Corona set up PSV Eindhoven’s Lozano to put El Tri in control. As Mexico broke quickly, Carlos Vela found Corona in space and he crossed superbly for Lozano to head home in emphatic style. The winger had only been on the pitch for two minutes, replacing Jurgen Damm, and his 53rd-minute goal seemed to take the wind out of Panama.
With goals needed it was somewhat surprising that Gomez didn’t bring on experienced top scorer Blas Peres to inspire a comeback. And it was Mexico who came closest to scoring a second, Hector Hererra forcing a great save from Panama keeper Jose Calderon before Juan Carlos Osorio’s men held out for a deserved victory.
The win moves El Tri clear at the top of their group to guarantee a place in Russia.
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