France hanging by a thread after Mexican masterclass
FRANCE (0) vs MEXICO(2)
MANCHESTER United new-boy Javier Hernandez helped Mexico run France ragged and usher the 2006 runners-up to the brink of a humiliating first-round exit.
Hernandez climbed off the bench to put Mexico in front before fellow substitute Cuauhtemoc Blanco, 37, struck the killer second goal from the penalty spot.
It was no more than Javier Aguirre’s livewire side merited for their superiority over a
French outfit whose toothlessness was matched only by their apathy.
Last night’s result in Polokwane means France’s fate is no longer in their own hands. Mexico and Uruguay will both advance from Group A if they draw their final fixture, regardless of what Raymond Domenech can eke out of his team against hosts South Africa.
Striker Hernandez, who will join United after the tournament from Chivas Guadalajara, broke the deadlock in the 64th minute when he beat the offside trap, rounded Hugo Lloris and tapped into an empty net.
Veteran Blanco sealed the win from the penalty spot after Eric Abidal clumsily scythed down Pablo Barrera.