Mexico defeated New Zealand in the Intercontinental Playoffs on Wednesday afternoon and things went pretty well for El Tri. Mexico routed New Zealand, 5-1, winning the match and getting one step closer to qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.
Mexico was simply overpowering. There was nothing New Zealand could do to stop El Tri's relentless attack. Mexico stepped on the pedal early on and they did not let go, continuously controlling the ball and scoring at will.
In the first half, Mexico put up two quick goals. First, it was Paul Aguilar, finishing a play that New Zealand could not clean up. The first goal was an example of how confident Mexico attacked the zone, loading up the box and taking advantage of loose balls. The second goal in the first half came just eight minutes later, at the 40-minute mark, as Raul Jimenez finished a corner kick with a header, giving Mexico a 2-0 lead heading into the half.
The second half did not bring any change. Mexico continued to get balls in the zone and New Zealand had no answer. Oribe Peralta scored at the 48' minute mark, making it 3-0 and just minutes later, Oribe struck again with a header that truly gave Mexico a reason to cheer.
Rafael Marquez sealed the deal in Minute 84, poking one past New Zealand's goalkeeper, Glenn Moss, for Mexico's fifth goal of the afternoon.
With the victory in the playoff, Mexico can confidently head to Wellington next week as they face New Zealand in the second leg of the playoffs against the same team.
