Mexico coach downplays referee influence on late winner

Mexico was on the brink of not scoring a goal in Gold Cup play for the first time in their last 32 matches, and Costa Rica was about to take it to penalty kicks.

Panama and Mexico advanced to the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup after their matches were forced into extra time and ultimately decided from the penalty spot on Sunday.

Mexico had countless opportunities to win the match in regulation time at MetLife Stadium but Miguel Herrera’s men were nearly left kicking themselves as a shootout loomed. – Reuters picEAST RUTHERFORD (United States), July 20 – Mexico and Panama advanced to a Gold Cup semi-final showdown with triumphs yesterday, one thanks to a dramatic save and the other on a penalty kick after a controversial call.

Giovani Dos Santos was a notable absentee due to an adductor injury suffered in Mexico’s thrilling 4-4 draw against Trinidad and Tobago. Costa Rica entered into the tournament wanting to continue its strong run from last summer in Brazil, but the only thing they have been able to show is what a mistake it was to let go of their coach, Jorge Luis Pinto. “My players should be proud of how they played”.

Marvin Phillip saved the seventh-round shot of Alberto Quintero to put the Canaleros on the edge of elimination but Trinidad and Tobago’s Daneil Cyrus booted his next shot over the crossbar to extend the drama. Three goals were scored by Trinidad, because of Kenwyne Jones intimidating the Mexican back-line.

The second half started off with even ball possession and stronger defense by both teams. Two of the best teams in the competition will clash in the quarter finals tonight, and although Mexico will be favourites, Costa Rica certainly have the players to cause an upset if Mexico are not at their absolute best.

Mexico arguably deserved the result after a strong showing in the second half and most of extra time. UPDATE: Panama has just won on penalty kicks in their game against Trinidad and Tobago.

Held every two years, the Gold Cup is open to all the nations of North and Central America and the Caribbean. The penalty, which was given when Mexican forward Oribe Peralta and Costa Rican defender Roy Miller collided in the box, gave the Mexicans the win in New Jersey and a date with Panama in the semifinals.