Zaguinho’s 3rd minute goal is the only tally thus far as Mexico leads the USA 1-0 in their U.S. Cup ’97 match at the Rose Bowl.
The Mexican forward beat the U.S. defense to run onto a fine long ball from Alberto Garcia Aspe. Zaguinho then continued down the left side of the box and beat Brad Friedel to the far post with a low shot from a tight angle.
The U.S. came close to equalizing in the 5th minute, when Jovan Kirovski shot just wide, and in the 19th, when Joe-Max Moore’s free kick sailed just over the crossbar.
The first half was marred by an ugly incident in the 35th minute. The U.S. won a corner after the Mexican keeper Rios did well to save Jason Kreis’ long, curling shot. After the ensuing corner, Cobi Jones appeared to be fouled just inside the box. No foul was given, and as the American players gathered around Canadian referee Kevin Skinner to argue, a Mexican player pushed Jones, who retalliated with a shove of his own. In the flareup that followed, Ramon Ramirez kicked Alexi Lalas in the groin. Jones and Ramirez received yellow cards.
The U.S. played a man down for several minutes after Brian McBride received a cut over his left eye. He returned to the game shortly before halftime.
Mexico’s Carlos Hermosillo was booked in the 22nd minute for coninuing to play after being whistled offside.