Mexico strolled past Ecuador Tuesday night, using two first half goals to put the match away.
With their win, Mexico secured their first win in the knockout stage since their run to the quarterfinals in 1986.
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While the score board may not show it, Mexico would dominate the match, outshooting Ecuador 15 to seven.
Mexico looked to get the scoring open early in front of their home fans, recording four shots through the first seven minutes.
And the opportunities for the Mexicans would just keep coming, with Gilberto Mora spoiling a chance in the 15th minute.
Ecuador would find their first shot not soon after, courtesy of John Yeboah in the 18th minute.
But the Mexicans were not shaken by the brief Ecuadorian press, getting right back on the offensive.
Julián Quiñones would take another attempt on net for Mexico.
After receiving a deep pass from Roberto Alvarado, Quiñones would drive into the box, cut left and send a right-footed rocket into the top corner.
And Mexico would continue the pressure, with Raúl Jiménez doubling their advantage in the 31st minute.
Late in the half, in the 40th minute, Ecuador would test Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel with their first shot on target of the night.
Rangel would make the save, keeping Mexico ahead by two.
Mexico would take their two-goal advantage into the half.
And they would maintain that two-goal advantage throughout the second half, suffocating any Ecuadorian chance to battle back.
The most exciting part of the second 45 would come in stoppage-time, but not in the way you might expect.
Following a confrontation with a Mexican player, Ecuador’s Piero Hincapié would be sent off with a red card after covering his mouth while addressing an opposing player.
And that’s where the score would stand as the full-time whistle signified the end of the match.
Mexico will take on the winner of England vs the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Their round of 16 match will take place at 8 p.m. on Sunday.
Follow Adrian Murillo Silva on Instagram @adrianms_official
