Mexico's nightmare 2013 might have been turned around on Wednesday night, thanks to a lethargic and seemingly half-interested Ivory Coast side. Both countries fielded B-plus teams and Mexico's was far superior in a 4-1 win that should give them a confidence boost heading into World Cup qualifiers.
Mexico vs. Ivory Coast: Final score 4-1, Elephants don’t exactly show up
That was pointless. Thanks for playing, Ivory Coast!
Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Things looked ominous for the visitors from the get-go. Mexico was all over them leading up to the opener, an own goal by Arthur Boka in the 10th minute. El Tri doubled their lead through Oribe Peralta in the 28th minute, assisted by an errant Ivory Coast backpass, then went on to add a third just before the break. Gerardo Torrado started a great team move on the counter, which eventually resulted in Angel Reyna slotting a through ball down the right flank for Giovani dos Santos. The Villarreal playmaker perfectly picked out the head of the onrushing Peralta, who completed a brace.
The Ivory Coast got a goal back in the second half from the spot, with Didier Drogba converting a penalty following a dubious handball call against Torrado. Mexico struck back and extended their lead to three goals again in stoppage time, with Reyna netting their fourth goal, assisted by Diego Reyes.
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