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Peru and Mexico Draw 1-1 in New Jersey Friendly

Coaches used the match to test players, with Jairo Vélez opening the scoring followed by Víctor Guzmán's second-half headed equalizer for Mexico.

Overview

  • The friendly at Sports Illustrated Stadium in New Jersey ended 1-1 after Jairo Vélez put Peru ahead and Víctor Guzmán levelled early in the second half with a header that beat goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.
  • Peru, coached by Mano Menezes, showed noticeably higher intensity and fought for every ball following a recent heavy loss to the United States.
  • Despite the improved attitude, Peru again struggled to build sustained attacking moves or create clear scoring chances, leaving its offensive plan unclear.
  • Mexico used the game to rotate personnel under Rafael Márquez, giving minutes to several newcomers but still failing to convert experimentation into a win.
  • Both sides treated the match as an evaluation opportunity, and the coaches are likely to make further tactical and selection adjustments as they prepare for the next round of friendlies and the long-term tournament cycle.