The curse has finally been lifted. For four decades, the Mexican national team has been haunted by missing out on a knockout-stage victory at the World Cup.
But on a dramatic Tuesday night, El Tri officially shattered their 40-year hoodoo, defeating Ecuador 2-0 to punch their ticket to the Round of 16 and sending an entire nation into absolute joy.
As co-hosts of the tournament, the expectations weighing on Javier Aguirre's squad were heavy. But instead of crumbling under the pressure, Mexico has been one of the most defensively solid and exciting teams of the summer.
Mexico Overcome Ecuador Despite Weather Delay
Mexico didn't just have to compete with the team on the pitch, they also had to battle the elements. Heavy rain and severe lightning in the area forced a one-hour delay before a ball was even kicked. But when the skies finally cleared, Mexico wasted no time taking absolute control of the game.
Taking the initiative right from the opening whistle, El Tri broke the deadlock just before half-time. Julian Quinones was the quickest to react, pouncing on a crucial defensive mistake from Ecuador to fire the hosts into the lead.
Moments later, Raul Jimenez doubled the advantage, giving Mexico a comfortable 2-0 cushion heading into the break.
While Ecuador pushed hard in the second half, dominating possession in a desperate attempt to stay in the tournament, Mexico’s backline stood firm.
The hosts comfortably held on to secure their fourth successive clean sheet of the tournament, while Ecuador's night got even worse when Piero Hincapie was shown a straight red card.
How Mexico Finally Ended Their World Cup Knockout Curse
For 40 years Mexico fans had to see their team get to the knockout stages and be sent packing. But now that curse is over!
Mexico had suffered an eight-match streak of eliminations in World Cup knockout games, which was the longest run in the entire history of the competition.
Now this current team can try and write more history in the round of 16.
Celebrations Erupt Across Mexico As El Tri Make History
As the final whistle blew, the celebrations exploded around the host nation. Millions of fans flooded to Mexico City to dance the last 40 years of pain away.
The celebrations are sure to continue, but the squad must quickly refocus. Mexico will now face the winner of England or giant-killers DR Congo as they look to keep their dream World Cup run on home soil alive.
Mexico have definitely proved they're not just here to make up the numbers they want to go as far as possible. With a tournament already full of shocks, the sky is the limit!
