Uruguay dispatched Mexico 4-1 as they carried on their impressive form from the World Cup.
Mexico were humiliated in Houston by an inspired Uruguayan side, with Luis Suarez leading the line well. This was Ricardo Ferretti’s first game in charge as interim manager, and he opted to make some bold decisions such as leaving Hector Herrera, Andres Guardado and Javier Hernandez at home in order to give some playing time to less experienced players.
This inexperience showed because they were put to the sword in a clinical showing from La Celeste. Jose Gimenez scored the opener with a towering header from a outswinging Jonathan Urreta corner. However, Raul Jimenez scored from the spot to bring his side level, with a lovely chipped effort after Rodrigo Bentancur clumsily fouled Hirving Lozano in the box.
Suarez restored the lead with a wonderful free kick, which curled right into the corner and took an awkward bounce on the line. He then won a penalty after being fouled by Jesus Angelo and promptly dispatched it past Guillermo Ochoa to give Uruguay a two-goal lead going into the half. The 31-year-old then finished his performance off with an innovative rabona cross for Gaston Pereiro to head home.
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El Tri were much more impressive in the second half as they created a number of good chances, but they couldn’t convert. Jimenez had the best opportunity because he had another chance from the spot, but Fernando Muslera was equal to it. Hirving Lozano was a constant threat for Mexico as he found his way in behind the defence in wide areas a number of times as well as having a headed attempt and a few shots saved by Muslera.
This match was a promising indicator for Barcelona fans because Suarez looked to be back at his best. He was confident, unpredictable and dangerous whenever he had the ball in the final third, which has been something that has been missing from his game for a while. The international break came at the worst possible time for Barca because he had his first strong showing of the season against Huesca. However, it doesn’t appear to have stopped his momentum based on this showing.
Suarez’s form hasn’t been unique to Barcelona, either, because he struggled for Uruguay at the World Cup. His strike partner Edinson Cavani overshadowed him during the tournament, with Suarez’s only good performance coming against Portugal in the Round of 16. Barcelona will need him to be fully firing throughout the season if they are to be successful in the league and Champions League this season.