The entire nation of Mexico, its players and coach Ricardo La Volpe may still be reeling after a dramatic loss to Argentina that eliminated them from this World Cup, but they have reason to believe the future is very bright.
Argentina and Mexico were locked in a 1-1 draw when Maxi Rodriguez controlled a cross-field pass on his chest and volleyed it from 25-yards out for the eventual game-winner, sending the Mexicans packing. This was the fourth straight time the Mexicans have exited after a second-round loss. They were knocked out by the United States in 2002 and Germany and Bulgaria the previous times.
Against Argentina -- a team that had scored eight goals in the group stage -- Mexico did more than hold their own. The Mexicans even got on the score board first and, if not for a quick rebuttal by Argentina, the match could have swung in favour of Mexico.
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Coach La Volpe is actually from Argentina, but finished his career as a goalkeeper in Mexico. He really believed his team would make history in Germany, but went on to state this would be a good learning experience for the future. The team is young and most players should be back for 2010, when they hope to reach the final. Mexico have reached the quarter-finals just twice in the last 36 years.
Some controversy was inevitable, especially the fact that only three Mexicans ply their trade in Europe. Captain Rafael Marquez was candid after the loss, “We need to work harder with our youngsters, starting at grassroots level, and make it easier for our players to make the move to Europe, where the real football is played," he said. "That would make a big difference.” Since his comments, several players have agreed to listen to potential offers from European-based clubs, in hopes of honing their skills. Next time defeat won’t be an option for the Mexicans.
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Tottenham v Blackburn - Match Preview - 19 November 2006
Two sides looking for something to spark their seasons clash at Ewood Park on Sunday as 15th-place Blackburn hosts 12th-place Tottenham.
Rovers are favored to win at home at 2.50, and Spurs are set at 3.00. A draw is rated at 3.30.
Blackburn fought hard, but were shut out 1-0 at home by Manchester United last weekend. Blackburn were outshot 16-10, and were booked four times in the fixture.
Robbie Keane's 24th-minute penalty was not enough as Spurs were beaten 3-1 at Reading in their last league match. Spurs led in both shots and possession, but their defence could not hold firm.
Tottenham have won five and drawn twice of their past ten matches with Rovers, who hold a 10-9 lead in goals scored.
Argentina and Mexico were locked in a 1-1 draw when Maxi Rodriguez controlled a cross-field pass on his chest and volleyed it from 25-yards out for the eventual game-winner, sending the Mexicans packing. This was the fourth straight time the Mexicans have exited after a second-round loss. They were knocked out by the United States in 2002 and Germany and Bulgaria the previous times.
