The US men’s national team lost their second game of the summer to rivals Mexico, with the latest being a 3-0 result Friday evening at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
A bright start for Gregg Berhalter’s team was halted in the 21st minute, as Chicharito made it 1-0 with a header from 10 yards out. Mexico’s all-time leading scorer was picked out by Tecatito Corona with a chipped cross after he nutmegged debutant outside back Sergino Dest.
Tata Martino’s team doubled their lead in the 78th minute via midfielder Erick Gutierrez, as he slotted home after a turnover near the USMNT’s 18-yard box. A wayward Zack Steffen pass was prompted by high pressure, which Mexico applied all evening.
Things went from bad to worse in the 82nd minute, as LA Galaxy forward Uriel Antuna made it 3-0 for Mexico. He was played through by Hirving Lozano and made no mistake with the finish.
The USMNT had an 88th-minute chance to salvage a goal, though Josh Sargent’s penalty kick was saved when goalkeeper Jonathan Orozco dove to his right. Before Antuna’s goal, US midfielder Alfredo Morales hit the post in the 80th minute following a free kick.
One highlight for the USMNT was a debut for Atlanta United center back Miles Robinson. He subbed on in the 58th minute for LAFC's Walker Zimmerman.
Goals
- 21' – MEX – Chicharito | WATCH
- 78' – MEX – Erick Gutierrez | WATCH
- 82' – MEX – Uriel Antuna | WATCH
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: The US, just like the Concacaf Gold Cup final 1-0 loss on July 7, had some bright moments, but it was ultimately the same story when the final whistle blew. El Tri were simply better from start to finish. They remain undefeated under Tata Martino, while the US head back to the drawing board before facing Uruguay next Tuesday in St. Louis.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: A sour evening could have ended on a bright note in the 88th minute, but Josh Sargent’s penalty-kick attempt lacked much venom. The 19-year-old striker’s miss summed up a frustrating night. Notably, the shot wasn't taken by Christian Pulisic.
- MAN OF THE MATCH. As is often the case, Mexico’s midfield was run by Hector Herrera. The Atletico Madrid newcomer's class was evident, and his quick pass set up Erick Gutierrez’s insurance tally.
Next Up
- USA: Tuesday, Sept. 10 vs. Uruguay (8 pm ET | FS1, Univision, TUDN) | International friendly
- MEX: Tuesday, Sept. 10 vs. Argentina (10 pm ET | Univision, TUDN) | International friendly
