The Mexico team took a positive step in his preparation for the World Cup 2026 by defeating Australia 1-0 in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. In a meeting that served as a test for several players seeking to secure a place in the final squad, the team led by Javier Aguirre He showed order, intensity and moments of good football.
The only goal of the game came thanks to Johan Vasquezwho took advantage of a set piece to make the difference in a duel where Mexico was superior for much of the match.
Johan Vásquez appeared at the key moment
The score that defined the commitment came in the 28th minute, when Johan Vasquez He connected a solid header after taking a corner kick.
The play reflected the dominance that the Mexican National Teamwho had created danger minutes before with another header, this time from Alexis Vegaforcing goalkeeper Mathew Ryan to intervene to prevent his goal from falling.
The goal rewarded the offensive proposal of the national team, which managed to impose conditions from the beginning and kept the Australian defense under pressure.
Mexico was superior in the first half
After opening the scoring, those led by Javier Aguirre They continued attacking and were close to extending the lead.
At minute 32, another set piece action ended with a shot from Guillermo Martinezalthough the Australian goalkeeper reacted in time to keep his team alive.
The statistics reflected the Mexican dominance in the first 45 minutes. The national squad tripled Australia in total shots and controlled much of the possession, creating the most dangerous chances of the match.
Rangel responded when Australia reacted
For the second half, the so-called “Socceroos” advanced their lines and sought the tie with greater insistence.
The clearest opportunity for the Oceanians came after a point-blank shot that was greatly contained by Raul Rangelwho responded with confidence to preserve the Mexican advantage.
Mexico also got close to the goal again in the 75th minute, but the action ended up invalidated due to offside.
Aguirre tested variants and observed key figures
Beyond the result, the friendly represented a valuable opportunity for Javier Aguirre will analyze the performance of several footballers who continue fighting for a place on the final list for the World Cup 2026.
The Mexican strategist modified the approach during the second half, going from a scheme focused on possession and circulation of the ball to a proposal with greater physical wear and width on the wings.
In addition, the coaching staff closely monitored the evolution of players who are going through the final stage of their physical recovery, including Edson Alvarez, Luis Chavez, Alexis Vega and Santiago Gimenez.
Serbia will be the last test before the World Cup debut
The victory over Australia represents an injection of confidence for the Mexican National Teamwhich will face its last preparation commitment on June 4 against Serbia.
That meeting will be the last opportunity for Javier Aguirre Define tactical details and finish evaluating the players who will make up the World Cup squad.
Mexico will begin its participation in the World Cup 2026 on June 10, when they play the opening match of the tournament against South Africa as the host country.
With performances like that of Johan Vasquez and a rotation of players that is beginning to consolidate, El Tri continues to refine its project with its sights set on an outstanding World Cup performance.
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