Mexico continued their World Cup preparations with a hard fought 1-0 win over Australia in a friendly match at the Rose Bowl on Saturday.
A first half goal from Johan Vasquez proved enough for the World Cup co hosts. The defender scored with a powerful header from a corner in the 28th minute.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre made nine changes to the team that beat Ghana 2-0 last week. Despite the new look lineup, Mexico controlled much of the first half and created several chances.
Luis Chavez fired over from distance early in the match. Later, Australia goalkeeper Mat Ryan produced an excellent save to deny Alexis Vega from close range.
Mexico finally broke through when Vega delivered a corner and Vasquez rose highest to head the ball into the net off the post.
Australia struggled for long periods but nearly found an equaliser before halftime. A defensive mistake left Mohamed Toure with an open goal after goalkeeper Raul Rangel rushed off his line. However, the striker missed the target from the edge of the box.
The Socceroos improved after the break and created more attacking opportunities. One of their best chances came when substitute Kai Trewin played a pass through to Ajdin Hrustic, but his shot went straight at veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.
Ochoa entered the match at halftime to the delight of Mexican supporters. Aguirre also introduced several substitutes during the second half, including 17 year old prospect Gilberto Mora.
Australia welcomed back defender Harry Souttar, who made his first international appearance since 2024 after recovering from a long Achilles injury. However, Cristian Volpato did not make his expected debut following his recent switch from Italy.
Mexico thought they had doubled their lead in the 76th minute, but the referee disallowed the goal after ruling that a free kick had been taken before play was restarted. The decision led to a brief argument between players from both teams.
The match was played in front of a crowd of 78,479 fans. Both teams were allowed to make 11 substitutions as part of the friendly’s special rules.
After the match, Souttar admitted Australia needed to improve their defending from set pieces before their final warm up game against Switzerland on June 6.
“To concede off a set-piece was disappointing,” Souttar said.
“It was disappointing to lose, particularly at the end but there were plenty of positives to take from it.”
Mexico will begin their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 11 in Mexico City. They will also face South Korea and the Czech Republic in the group stage.
Australia start their tournament on June 13 against Turkey before taking on the United States and Paraguay.
