Switzerland humble Mexico 2-0

An unfortunate own goal from Mexico goalkeeper Jose Rodriguez three minutes before the interval took the margin to two but despite opportunities at both ends it proved to be the last of the goalscoring. Contrary to what the scoreboard stated Mexico enjoyed far more possession than their opponents in the opening stanza recording a mighty […]

An unfortunate own goal from Mexico goalkeeper Jose Rodriguez three minutes before the interval took the margin to two but despite opportunities at both ends it proved to be the last of the goalscoring.

Contrary to what the scoreboard stated Mexico enjoyed far more possession than their opponents in the opening stanza recording a mighty 66 per cent of the ball. Despite the apparent imbalance the Swiss were invariably dangerous around the penalty area hitting the frame of the goal once in each half. Oliver Buff rocking the crossbar with a marvelous strike from outside the penalty area on 17 minutes, just prior to Kasami’s left-footed opener. The lead doubled with custodian Rodriguez unable to deal adequately with a corner.

Two goals down midway through the second half the Mexicans were desperate for a lifeline and they were duly handed one just moments after Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka’s effort the post. Midfielder Oliver Buff earned his second caution within five minutes and was dismissed.

Mexico battled hard to reinvigorate the match but could find no way past Swiss goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist. The Mexicans hopes were finally extinguished with the dismissal of substitute striker Martin Ponce with eight minutes remaining.