Mexico (5) v (8) Zimbabwe

By Tim Beissmann

ZIMBABWE surged into the top three of the Group E table after a hard fought 8-5 win over a galant Mexican outfit.

A classy one-two gave Juan Felix Buenrostro Segura the opener for Mexico within seconds, but the Zimbabweans soon responded through Farai Murwira who intercepted and goaled.

It was goal for goal early in the half before the Zimbabweans took control of possession and showed brilliant pace, creativity and foot skills.

A volley followed quickly by a second goal had the African fans chanting for more, as their team took a 6-2 lead to the break.

But some superb team play by the Mexicans had them right back in the contest early in the second half.

Three rapid-fire goals, including Buenrostro Segura's fourth, had them just one down with three minutes remaining.

The Zimbabweans appeared to be struggling under the pressure, but a steadier followed by another from a quick intercept and score by Simbarashe Saidi helped them to relax.

Desperate defence by Zimbabwe was required to stop a persistant and hard-finishing Mexico, with their kepper the clear standout for the match.

Mexico will need victories in their remaining two matches to stay in the hunt for the Homeless World Cup, but are by no means out of contention.

The Zimbabweans are looking good to qualify in the top three of their group along with Afghanistan and Scotland.

Photos: Photoworx