World Cup 2018 First Round Drama: Mexico & Germany

If you didn’t catch it, we just looked at England’s lopsided defeat of Panama, and what a draw with Belgium could mean for them in the next round, here. Now let’s look at the bad news for Mexico:

Tony Kroos pic by Steindy. Wikimedia Commons

Mexico & Group F
With 2 wins under its belt, the Mexican team should have been a sure bet for advancement to the next round of play. With an upset victory over the stalwart Germans 1-0, and a decisive 2-1 victory over South Korea yesterday, Mexico displayed that they have to talent to be a real threat in this tournament. However, with a stroke of (bad) luck, they could be on their way back home prematurely. If Sweden had managed to keep the Germans to a draw yesterday, it would be clear sailing for the Mexicans. Instead, German midfielder Tony Kroos took destiny in hand (or foot) and salvaged German chances for advancement with his literal-last-minute rocket into the goal from a free kick earned after a some foolish defense by Sweden’s Jimmy Durmaz, who had subbed in during overtime play. Though the German squad was totally dominating gameplay and possession, the Swedes, with the help of their excellent but beleaguered goalie Robin Olsen weren’t letting any shots in the goal. With only moments left in stoppage time, Durmazs’ regrettable play allowed Kroos the perfect opportunity to slip one by Olsen, and win the game 2-1, giving the Germans 3 much needed points for the round.

USCBP Photo Handout/Nicole Byram. flickr

So what does this mean for Mexico? It means that unlike Russia, France or Uruguay, who secured their countries’ advancement by winning 2 games each,El Tri (the name of Mexico’s team which comes from their tricolor insignia of white, red and green.) could still be knocked out the tournament if they lose to Sweden on Wednesday. If Germany performs as is expected and prevails over South Korea, a loss to the Swedes could spell the end of Mexico’s Copa Mundial hopes, as a three way tie at 6 pts each could leave them at a disadvantage in stats vs Germany and Sweden. While El Tri definitely has the talent to overcome Sweden, the Swedes will be gunning hard to salvage the round for themselves, and it should make for a great match for certain. Group F is really providing some excitement with it’s up in the air nature, while many other groups have been decided. Even South Korea is not out yet; if they can beat the German team, and Mexico prevails, they could potentially sneak into the round of 16 themselves!

Group F -
Mexico 6 pts 1-0 vs Germany, 2-1 vs S. Korea
Germany 3 pts 2-1 vs Sweden,
Sweden 3 pts 1-0 vs S. Korea
South Korea *0 pts

Be sure to catch all the remaining Group F action on Wednesday.