Mexican women here to be better people- not just secure a record 10th title
Mexico has won the Women’s Homeless World Cup a record nine times - and they’re on a hot streak of seven in a row.
Their quest to secure a 10th title gathered momentum with a resounding 13-3 victory over Sweden on Day 2 in Oslo.
Quick passing and movement from one side of the pitch to the other had Sweden stretched, with some stellar finishing seeing Mexico race into a three-goal lead. A first Sweden chance produced a great save from the Mexico goalkeeper, before a shot off the post and a nicked finish at the edge of the box saw Mexico go 6-0 up.
Sweden’s keeper spurred the vocal supporters in the stands with two impressive saves from point-blank range, before two quick passing moves saw Mexico go in 8-0 at half-time.
Soon after the break it was 9-0, before the crowd erupted in cheers with Sweden’s first goal off a sweet finish.
The loss of a goal kicked Mexico into second gear, with wave after wave of attacks seeing them go 11-1 up, before Sweden got their second goal of the match via a shot that crept under the keeper. A further chance went over the bar, before Sweden registered their third with a powerful shot from distance. After a great save from the Swedish keeper to deny Mexico, a period of possession saw Mexico find the net for the 13th time.
Following the match, Mexico coach Anali Zarate Bravo, who played for Mexico at the Poznan 2013 Homeless World Cup, said:
“I’m very happy and proud of my team. They are enjoying themselves, which is the main thing, and they are showing their pride in being here representing Mexico.
“I encourage my players to enjoy themselves and tell me that being here will help them to become better people. Of course we want to win but most importantly we want them to enjoy the experience of being here to help them improve their own lives when they return home.”
Words by Craig Wiliams | Photos by Donnie Nicholson & Anita Milas