Mexico produced an impressive first-half display to take a 2-0 lead over Ecuador in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash after kick-off at Estadio Azteca was delayed by an hour because of thunderstorms.
The hosts opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through Julian Quinones. Roberto Alvarado lifted a brilliant pass over the Ecuador defence and Quinones controlled it perfectly before cutting inside and blasting his shot past Hernan Galindez. A brief offside check confirmed the goal, sending the home fans into celebration.
Mexico doubled their lead nine minutes later after a costly mistake by Joel Ordonez. The defender lost possession to Raul Jimenez, who exchanged passes with Quinones before curling a superb finish into the top corner to make it 2-0.
Ecuador found it difficult to break through Mexico’s organised defence. John Yeboah came closest when his curling effort forced Raul Rangel into a good save, while Moises Caicedo wasted a free kick from a promising position.
Franco picked up the first yellow card of the match in first-half stoppage time after a late challenge on Quinones.
Mexico controlled the game for long periods, with Alvarado once again playing a key role in attack and defence. Backed by a loud home crowd, Javier Aguirre’s side looked confident and dangerous throughout the opening 45 minutes.
Mexico now need to protect their two-goal advantage in the second half as they chase a place in the World Cup quarter-finals, where either England or DR Congo await.
