Mexico’s unbeaten streak shows they are serious Copa América contenders
When Jesús “Tecatito” Corona darted past five defenders before firing in an outrageous 80th minute equaliser against in-form Venezuela on Monday evening it meant more to Mexico than just securing top spot of Group C in the Copa America. With that 1-1 draw at Houston’s packed NRG Stadium, Mexico extended their unbeaten run to 22 games, one better than their previous record, and made it a near certainty that they will avoid Argentina in Saturday’s quarter-final.
Monday’s result brought an end to Mexico’s run of 11 consecutive wins but they are still on the longest undefeated streak of any national side in the world today and have now conceded just twice in their last 11 games. With momentum building under Juan Carlos Osorio, who has overseen nine wins out of 10 since taking charge last October, El Tri must now be considered serious contenders for a Copa América title.
Brazil and Uruguay were both eliminated in the group stage and although Argentina remain firm favourites to lift the trophy, Mexico are unlikely to have a better opportunity to win the competition than in this expanded centenary edition. This is the first time the tournament has been held in North America and Mexico have essentially stolen home advantage as they draw far bigger crowds in the United States than anyone else, including the host nation…
The Tequila Files 