Day 3: Canada 2-11 Mexico
Both teams play their part in entertaining clash of the Americas.
Mexico may have come out on top but the scoreline certainly flattered them as the Canadians helped what many would have seen as a routine match for the Mexicans a competitive fixture and showed how far they have come along since the tournament began on Sunday.
They shocked the capacity crowd on Pitch 2 by taking an early lead and were able to hold on for a few minutes as their keeper pulled heroic saves one after another. Eventually the Mexicans were able to force a quick double to take the lead. It took real fluidity to finally get the ball behind the canadian defence and the second came from a debatable free kick. It took an unprecedented quadruple stop before the Mexicans could get a third and the keeper´s performance must have inspired his teammates at they took the game to Mexico and reduced the deficit. A fine curling shot left the Mexican keeper with no chance and the celebrations in the stand showed the appreciation this Canadian performance was giving the Copacabana audience. By halftime the Mexicans had stretched their lead to 6-2 but it was by no means a comfortable first course for one of the tournament´s hot favourites.
The second half continued with three more goals for Mexico but it would have been more if it was not for yet more outstanding goalkeeping from Canada´s number 1. Tragically for the Canadians he was forced off midway through the second half by what appeared to be a painful wrist injury, one however which hopefully will not keep him out for long. Two more goals were scored by Mexico, both straight out the top drawer. A sweet passing move where they kept possession for a few minutes and from this forced a penalty which was deservedly slotted home. The other goal came from a beautiful take down and was caught on the half volley drawing applause from even the Canadians.
At the end of the game it was the Mexicans who took the points but the Canadians who got the plaudits as they showed in large spells what they are capable of. It was obvious that they were proud of themselves as they doused the coach in water and left the pitch to loud chants and cheers of ´CAN-ADA´ from everywhere around them.
Sounds like the team has really pulled together. Your love of the game and the encouragement of other teams gives you strength. Go - Canada - Go
The Team are not just playing to better each of their futures, they are playing for social change in Canada, and with deepening consciousness and support for the third world teams they have befriended, GOooooo Canada!
It takes great strength of character to bounce back after a disappointing performance like Canada vs. Cambodia. That kind of strength is essential to success in sports and everything we do in life. Congratulations Team Canada for playing so well against Mexico, a terrific accomplishment.