After controversial call, Mexico advances to semis

In a battle of runners-up of Group B and C, Costa Rica and Mexico battle for the final spot in the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals in an epic quarters clash.

A matter of moments before the clash was poised to be decided by penalties, Oribe Peralta went to ground under a challenge from Roy Miller inside the box.

Many in Mexico seem to be in agreement that the penalty was undeserved, except for head coach Miguel Herrera and Peralta.

Shortly after Sunday’s contest, Costa Rica manager Paulo Wonchope gave plenty of credit to Mexico for playing a great game, but was still visibly shocked by the late call. Then Carlos Vera had chances in the 69th and 74th minutes but both his shots from inside 10 yards missed the target.

The simple facts alone are painful for both the Mexican team and its fans to hear, but a tie means that they can only finish in second place among three teams with mediocre talent.

After losing 2-1 to Panama in last year’s semi-finals, six-time champion Mexico will seek revenge and an eighth trip to the finals of the biennial North American regional football championship when they meet again on Wednesday in Atlanta. “My players should be proud of how they played”.

That goal came in what was essentially the 124th minute of play with Guardado leaving no doubt, lashing his left-footed kick from the spot authoritatively into the left side of the net.

Panama controlled possession on this day but couldn’t put away its opportunities. But goalkeeper Marvin Phillip made five saves to keep Trinidad and Tobago in it.

Check out this second half chance for Vela.

Giovanni will wake up feeling better tomorrow and in his power he was ready if we need him, “Herrera, who confirmed that the player an advantage only if it 100 percent, he said”. That changed in the second 15 as Corona almost found Guardado for a victor right in front of the Costa Rican goal, but his shot trickled wide of the post.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – A poor decision by the referee in the 120th minute ended Costa Rica’s run at the Gold Cup.

Things had started so well for Mexico, with them demolishing Cuba 6-0 in their opening match.

Panama beat Trinidad and Tobago on penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw through extra time.