MEXICO CITY — Mexican coach Javier Aguirre showed his relief after his team’s 2-1 victory over the United States on Wednesday in a critical World Cup qualifier.
“Today is a day to celebrate, drink a few tequilas, and then get back to work,” Aguirre said after Miguel Sabah’s goal in the 82nd minute gave Mexico the come-from-behind victory. “Everybody will go to bed tonight a bit more relaxed.”
The loss for the United States was almost expected. The Americans have played 24 times in Mexico and lost 23. The only tie was a 0-0 draw in 1997.
The Mexicans are fourth in CONCACAF qualifying, with only the top three teams automatically advancing. Costa Rica, a 4-0 loser against Honduras, leads the group with 12 points, followed by the United States and Honduras with 10, and Mexico with nine. The United States should stay on course to qualify if it wins its two remaining home games.
“I think it’s a tight game and a fair score,” U.S. coach Bob Bradley said. “It’s tough loss to have so many guys work so hard and then give up a late goal. The feeling inside is one of great disappointment.”
Sabah, who came in three minutes earlier, was all alone in front of the net when he took a feed from Efrain Juarez and beat goalkeeper Tim Howard.
Defender Jay DeMerit made a key tackle on Juarez in the area, but the ball, instead of bounding out of bounds, went to Sabah, who put it away.
“The guy turned on it quickly and smashed it as hard as he could,” Howard said of Sabah’s goal.
Charlie Davies gave the United States a 1-0 lead in the ninth minute, but Israel Castro tied it in the 19th on a wicked 27-yard shot off the underside of the crossbar and just over a leaping Howard’s outstretched hand.
