Late Marquez goal powers Mexico past Team U.S.A.

Hector Herrera looks to pass to teammate Miguel Layun.
(FERMIN LEAL/FUTBOL DAILY) Mexico starts the 'hex' portion of World Cup qualifying with a victory over Team U.S.A.

Mexico ended its Columbus curse on Friday with by edging Team U.S.A. 2-1 in the first match of the final round in World Cup qualifying.

A header from Rafa Marquez into the back of the net from a corner quick in the 89th minute gave El Tri a dramatic victory.

Team U.S.A. had tied the game in the 49th minute after Mexico took an early lead when Bobby Wood dribbled past a couple of defenders to scores his team’s first goal.

Miguel Layun scored the opening goal in the first half on a deflected shot the skipped past U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard.

The U.S. loss was its first defeat on home soil in the hexagonal stage of World Cup CONCACAF qualifying in 15 matches.

Mexico also broke the “dos a cero” streak it had suffered at the hands of the U.S. in Columbus.

Mexico dominated the first half giv multiple opportunities on goal, Carlos Vela and Jesus “Tecatito” Corona each had shots deflected of the U.S. goal post.

The U.S. came out in the second half as the aggressor with Wood and Jozy Altidore creating several chances.

Mexico next plays at Panama on Monday, while Team U.S.A travel to Costa Rica.

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