Match Delay in Mexico City
The FIFA World Cup last-32 match between Mexico and Ecuador at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City experienced a one-hour delay. The decision was made due to severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and lightning in the vicinity of the stadium. FIFA confirmed that the safety and security of all individuals involved was their primary concern.
The game, originally scheduled for an earlier kick-off, was rescheduled to begin at 20:00 local time. This marks the first instance in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, where a match start has been postponed due to weather. Previously, a group stage match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia on June 22 was interrupted for approximately two hours during halftime due to storms.
First Half Action
The match began with a lively atmosphere, despite the delay. Mexico started strongly, with Mora being particularly active in the final third. Early in the game, Jimenez had a significant opportunity from a cross by Romo but narrowly missed the target with a header. Ecuador, after weathering the initial pressure, mounted their first attack, though Hincapie’s cross was cut out.
The intensity of the game was high, with both teams creating chances. Yeboah for Ecuador struck the post with a left-footed shot after good work from Plata. However, Mexico continued to press, and Julian Quinones scored with a powerful shot from inside the box after a quick transition, following a pass from Gallardo. Jimenez also found the net, exchanging passes with Quinones before scoring into the top corner, igniting the crowd at the Azteca.
Despite the fast-paced play, a hydration break was called, which some observers found disruptive given the cool conditions and prior delay. Ecuador’s defense appeared unsettled at times, struggling to adapt to Mexico’s varied attacking approach, which saw players like Quinones, Mora, and Alvarado frequently interchange positions. Rangel, Mexico’s goalkeeper, made several key saves, including diving to parry a decent effort from Yeboah and clawing away corners amidst crowded penalty areas.
Ecuador’s squad, under Argentinian head coach Beccacece, features players like Moisés Caicedo and Willian Pacho. Beccacece, who became head coach in August of 2024, has focused on instilling defensive discipline. The match continued with both teams battling for control in midfield, leading to a physical contest.
The atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca was described as hostile for Ecuador, with boos accompanying their possession. The rendition of the Himno Nacional Mexicano was noted as wonderful, with over 80,000 spectators creating a stirring scene. The match resumed with Jimenez losing his footing while chasing a long ball.
The game saw a moment where Pacho worked Jimenez off the ball, sending the Mexican striker into the technical area. Mora, who was described as superb, and Quinones, who was silky, contributed significantly to Mexico’s attacking play. Lira and Romo were also noted for their omnipresence on the field. The first half concluded with Ecuador earning a corner, which Rangel successfully cleared from his six-yard box.
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Source: dawn.com
