Orozco goals end USA drought on Mexican soil
Reuters - Thursday 16 August 2012, 05:10
Michael Orozco scored a late winner as the
United States upset Mexico 1-0 in a stirring friendly on
Wednesday to register their first win away to their arch rivals.
Orozco's 80th-minute goal was complemented by a pair of fine
saves by U.S goalkeeper Tim Howard in the last 10 minutes to
secure victory at Mexico City's intimidating Azteca Stadium.
U.S coaches hugged on the sideline on the final whistle
while American players dropped to their knees in celebration.
"It was a fantastic team performance," U.S manager Jurgen
Klinsmann told reporters.
"Getting that win here, it's quite enjoyable. I think it's
huge for all American fans and for the team. We were well aware
we'd never won at Azteca stadium."
Facing a dangerous attack led by striker Javier Hernandez,
the U.S surrendered possession for most of the match and
appeared content to escape with a draw.
But the game turned when Brek Shea made a surprise run on
the left wing and played a ball that was backheeled by Terrance
Boyd and knocked in goal by Orozco.
Mexico entered the match with a 23-0-1 home record against
the Americans whose previous best result on Mexican soil was 0-0
in 1998.
The U.S's triumph was built on a watertight defence that
nullified the hosts' relentless attacking.
Mexico finished with 19 shots on goal to the visitors'
seven, and enjoyed the lion's share of possession.
Hernandez came close to breaking U.S hearts in the 88th
minute with a spectacular header, but Howard saved it to bring
the Mexicans back to earth after their Olympic team's gold medal
triumph at the London Games last week.