In a lopsided preparation match for the 2024 Copa América, Uruguay embarrassed Mexico’s El Tri 4-0 at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado.
The South Americans, led by a stellar performance from Liverpool forward Darwin Núñez, demonstrated their superiority over a messy Mexican side.
Uruguay’s Darwin Nuñez shines against Mexico
The match began with Uruguay applying relentless pressure, which paid off early.
By the seventh minute, Núñez capitalized on a chaotic scramble in front of Mexico’s goal, converting a cross from Nahitan Nández to open the scoring.
Despite a near equalizer from Roberto “Piojo” Alvarado, whose powerful shot struck the crossbar in the 13th minute, Mexico struggled to contain Uruguay’s dynamic play.
Uruguay’s manager Marcelo Bielsa showcased his tactical superiority, with his team executing swift counters and exploiting Mexico’s defensive weaknesses.
In the 26th minute, Brian Rodríguez assisted Facundo Pellistri for the second goal, compounding Mexico’s difficulties.
Just before halftime, Núñez scored his second goal, benefiting from a well-coordinated counterattack with Maximiliano Araujo to make it 3-0.
The second half saw Uruguay maintaining their dominance.
Núñez completed his hat-trick in the 49th minute, finishing a precise cross from Pellistri.
Despite adjustments from Mexico’s manager Jaime “Jimmy” Lozano, the Concacaf side could not make a comeback.
Mexican fans direct homophobic chants to El Tri
The frustration was evident among the Mexican fans in Denver, culminating in disruptive behavior that temporarily halted the game in the 54th minute due to homophobic chants.
On the field, Mexico’s efforts, including a notable free-kick from substitute Alexis Vega, were taken care of by Uruguay’s organized defense and goalkeeper Sergio Rochet.
Edson Álvarez’s performance was particularly disappointing, with two critical errors leading to Uruguay’s counterattacks and goals.
This defeat highlights the ongoing challenges for Mexico as they undergo a generational transition under Lozano, who has been at the helm since June 2023.
Analysts continue to argue that this transition should have been initiated before the 2022 World Cup, where Mexico’s early exit from the group stage was a clear signal of deeper issues.
Lozano’s current task is daunting, with the pressure mounting to deliver results and solidify his squad ahead of the Copa América.
Uruguay, on the other hand, concluded their preparations on a high note and will face Panama in their first group stage match on June 23.
Mexico’s next challenge is a friendly against Brazil on Saturday, June 8, which will be crucial for Lozano as he seeks to stabilize his team before the tournament kicks off on June 20.