Brilliant Mexico deserves better
Germany’s unbelievable victory over Sweden sets up do-or-die Group F showdown
Saturday’s incredible last gasp goal by Germany’s Toni Kroos to defeat Sweden 2-1 has turned Group F on its head. Until that goal, Sweden and Mexico were looking forward to coasting into the knockout stage when they play on Wednesday. Instead, they’re now locked into a battle for their tournament lives.
I have to feel for the Mexicans, who have played brilliantly. The team has won both its games, defeated the world champions, and tops their group. You would think that would be enough that the players could relax a little. No such luck.
If Mexico loses to Sweden and Germany defeats lastplace South Korea, then we have a three-way tie on six points, and the various tiebreaking scenarios don’t favour Mexico. Sweden and Germany would most likely go through.
And let’s take a moment to admire the courage Kroos showed to even take that shot. The angle was so tight. He had to hit it with both accuracy and power to beat the keeper, and he had virtually no run up. It would have been so easy for Kroos just to swing in a cross and hope somebody else could rise to the occasion, but he trusted his abilities and took the responsibility on himself.
If Germany goes on to win this tournament, that goal will have been the turning point for them.
So now Mexico needs to come up with a result. A tie against Sweden would be enough to advance, but playing for a draw is always risky.
Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio likes to tinker with his lineup and tactics. He’s been criticized for it by the Mexican media in the past, but has been vindicated in this tournament. He played a quick counter-attacking style against Germany, and a possession game against South Korea, focusing on attacks down the flanks. What will he do against Sweden? I don’t think we’ll see many players= changes, as the lineup he’s gone with has been getting the job done.
The focus of the attack is striker Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, who has good movement as well as a poacher’s instincts in front of goal.
The player to watch, though, is young winger Hirving Lozano, who stars for Dutch club PSV Eindhoven. He’s nicknamed Chucky.
Mexico’s most creative player is Carlos Vela who operates just behind Hernandez. He plays for Los Angeles FC of MLS.
Wednesday’s other games are in Group E, where thirdplace Serbia has to get a result against Brazil.
And Switzerland looks to secure its passage to the next round against already eliminated Costa Rica. It’s possible Whitecaps FC defender Kendall Waston could make his World Cup debut. Lenarduzzi is president of Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Tickets: visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets