Mexico beats Ghana in World Cup match as cohosts perform under sanctions

Mexico National Team Beats Ghana 2-0 in World Cup Warm-Up Match

In a friendly match held at Cuauhtemoc Stadium in Puebla, Mexico’s national team defeated Ghana 2-0 on Friday. The match was part of the country’s preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The stadium had sections closed due to FIFA sanctions related to discriminatory chants at previous national team matches. Despite this, fans in attendance created a lively atmosphere throughout the evening. Mexican player Brian Gutierrez scored the opening goal after just two minutes, while Ghana’s Gil Mora had a chance to score but hit the post in the first half.

In the second half, Ghana threatened an equalizer, forcing saves from Mexico’s goalkeeper and hitting the crossbar. However, substitute Guillermo Martinez ended the visitors’ hopes with a counterattack goal in the 54th minute, doubling Mexico’s lead.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre used the friendly to evaluate players ahead of naming his final World Cup squad on June 1. Several Europe-based players made appearances in the second half, including Luis Chavez, Edson Alvarez, and Jorge Sanchez. The coach praised the effort shown by players battling for places in the final squad, stating that their best efforts were already worthwhile.

The match marked an important step in Mexico’s preparations for the World Cup, with Aguirre’s coaching staff continuing to assess player fitness and performance.

Source: Al Jazeera