Overview
- Javier Aguirre started Raúl ‘Tala’ Rangel over local favorite Carlos Acevedo, prompting repeated boos, yet Rangel delivered a key second‑half save and kept a clean sheet.
- Seventeen‑year‑old Gilberto Mora produced Mexico’s best chance with a three‑toe shot inches wide and absorbed a heavy challenge, drawing post‑match acclaim from Marcelo Bielsa.
- A late penalty appeal by Maxi Araujo against César Montes was waved off, triggering on‑field confrontations and fresh criticism of the officiating.
- Hirving Lozano left before halftime with a muscle issue, opening the door for Mora’s impactful cameo as Mexico again struggled to convert sustained possession into goals.
- Raúl Jiménez denounced the crowd reaction and suggested it explains frequent games in the United States, while Aguirre said fans are free to express themselves; Mexico faces Paraguay on Tuesday in San Antonio.