Second straight win for Mexico
Rostov-on-Don, June 23: Mexico laid one foot in the World Cup’s last 16 and left South Korea on the brink of elimination after goals from Javier Hernandez and Carlos Vela clinched a 2-1 victory on Saturday.
Hernandez became the first Mexican player to score 50 goals for his country, after 104 appearances, with Vela earlier opening the scoring through yet another penalty kick.
Son Heung-min’s stunning long-range effort in stoppage time gave South Korea a glimmer of hope but it was too little too late.
Mexico lead Group ‘F’ with six points after two games, having backed up their shock victory against Germany with another display to suggest they can go deep in this tournament.
Mexico’s penalty in the 27th minute was clear. Jang tried to block Andres Guardado’s cross but inexplicably slid with his arm outstretched above him and the ball struck the defender’s hand.
Vela was made to wait by goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo, who played for time by swigging his water and chatting to his teammates, but there was no mistake. Vela slid home.
It was little surprise when Mexico doubled their lead. They were fortunate not to concede a foul for a clear trip by Hector Herrera in the build-up but Lozano found Hernandez and the striker did the rest. The former Manchester United striker’s dummyshot fooled the lunging Jang before a scuffed finish rolled past Jo.
Son should have capitalised on a Rafael Marquez mistake late on but made amends in the 93rd minute with a fabulous effort that soared into the corner.