Mexico vs. Costa Rica: Disaster at Azteca in another 0-0 draw

While Chepo’s sixth new starting XI in as many competitive matches had the same problems as the previous five squads, Klinsmann’s fifth team in as many competitive matches looked better than they ever have during his tenure. It wasn’t down to luck or the United States playing a weaker opponent than Mexico did. It happened because Mexico didn’t make any changes to the way they played while the U.S. adjusted their tactics to fit the players they had on the pitch and accounted for their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.

Costa Rica manager Jorge Luis Pinto brilliantly anticipated Mexico’s changes in personnel and their inability to change their strategy. He switched to a back five with two central midfielders for the second time in the Hex and Mexico made no adjustments to account for the strengths and weaknesses of Los Ticos’ setup. If Mexico switched to playing with a single central striker and an added body in the midfield while moving away from lofted crosses into the penalty area, they probably would have created matchup nightmares for Costa Rica.

El Tri continued to struggle going into the break, and Chicharito squandered a chance in his frustration in the 45th minute. Mexico had a dangerous-looking four-on-two break, but instead of being patient and looking for a teammate to pass to, Hernandez took a long shot and missed wide.

The biggest event of the second half was probably Ruiz’s protests just before taking a corner, thanks to some less than friendly behavior from Mexico fans. They pelted him with garbage and it took nearly three minutes for him to take the corner kick.

Mexico and Costa Rica are tied at 0-0 at halftime in their World Cup qualifier, and El Tri’s supporters are not happy. Despite Jose Manuel de la Torre’s massive lineup changes, it’s been more of the same from his team. They’re struggling to create chances while conceding great opportunities on the counter.

Campbell had another brilliant chance in the 37th minute, but Corona came up huge for his side. Campbell looked to have the far post picked out after a layoff from Cristian Bolaños, but the Mexican goalkeeper made an absolutely brilliant stop.

Kickoff is at 8:10 p.m. ET, delayed 10 minutes due to Costa Rica arriving late at the Azteca. You can catch the game on ESPN or Univision Deportes in the United States.

• Bradley the key for USMNT

In the United States, this game is the first in a doubleheader of World Cup qualifiers, taking place just before the USMNT-Panama match. It can be seen on TV and online in both English and Spanish.

Match date/time: Tuesday, 8 p.m. ET