Mexico finished the group stage in the best possible way, beating the Czech Republic 3-0 and securing first place in Group A with a full nine points.

Meanwhile, the Czech national team bowed out of the World Cup in the group stage, in their return to the tournament after a full 20 years.

The Czech Republic started the challenge with plenty of energy and were close to the advantage from the in the eighth minute, but Denis Višinský wasted an ideal opportunity from close range, sending the ball wide of the goal. On the other hand, Mexico started the match without rhythm and created very little danger in the first half.

The first 45 minutes were characterized by a lack of clean chances and quality in the game. The home side’s best chance came from Roberto Alvarado, who hit the crossbar from a promising position. Although first place in the group was already secured, Javier Aguirre’s side did not show their usual brilliance and registered only one shot on goal before the break.

Everything changed in the second half. In the 55th minute, Mateo Chávez took a pass from Luis Romo, dribbled past an opponent and beat goalkeeper Matěj Kovář to give Mexico the lead.

Just a few minutes later, the Czech defense made a big mistake and Julián Quiñones took advantage to score his second goal of the tournament, making it 2-0 and virtually sealing the fate of of the match.

One of the most exciting moments came at the end, when 40-year-old Mexican goalkeeping legend Guillermo Ochoa was activated in the 78th minute amid cheers from the fans, adding another chapter to his World Cup history.

The victory was sealed in extra time by Álvaro Fidalgo, who scored the third goal after coming off the bench.

This triumph it is Mexico’s deepest win in a World Cup since 1970 and extends its unbeaten streak to 11 consecutive matches. On the other hand, the Czech Republic leaves the tournament disappointed, having failed to take advantage of the return to the biggest stage of world football after two decades of absence.

Source: prizrenpost