Mexico gets past Belize, 2-0
HOUSTON -- Mexico, ranked No. 1 in the North and Central American and Caribbean region and No. 14 in the world, opened World Cup qualifying with a 2-0 victory over No. 172-ranked Belize on Sunday.
“This wasn’t quite what people expected,” Mexico defender Carlos Salcido said. “I know [the fans] wanted five or six goals. But they played very well in back, and the important thing is we met our objective of winning.”
Mexico’s Carlos Vela scored from two yards off a deflection of a missed shot by Luis Perez in the 66th minute and Jared Borgetti converted a penalty kick during stoppage time.
“I was pleased with our effort,” Belize Coach Ian Mork said. “It was outstanding, unbelievable. They gave their heart and soul against one of the best teams in the world. They never gave up.”
The second game of the two-game aggregate series will be played in Monterrey, Mexico, on Saturday.
Belize goalkeeper Shane Orio blocked three shots in the first 25 minutes, including a leaping save of a power shot up the middle by Andres Guardado. Orio also stopped a close-in shot from the right side by Fernando Arce in the 39th minute and ended with seven saves.
“On their first goal I was kind of disappointed,” Orio said. “I got my hand on the ball. I should have tried to push it harder.”
Mexico outshot Belize, 21-3.
