Honduras kept their hopes of reaching next year's World Cup alive by beating a resilient Mexico team at Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula, according to ESPN FC. However, it was Mexico that went ahead in the first half but blew it all in the second half. Mexico got the opener in the seventeenth minute courtesy of an Oribe Peralta's clinical finish from close range. Later on, Alberth Elis struck home the equalizer to put Honduras back in the contest. Just three minutes after equalizing the scoreline, Mexico went ahead again thanks to a Carlos Vela's brilliant effort that past Honduras goalkeeper.
Later in the second half, Honduras leveled up the scoreline through an own goal from Guillermo Ochoa before Romell Quioto extended the lead in the sixtieth minute and ultimately sealed the victory for Honduras. With this victory, Honduras advance to the intercontinental playoffs against Australia for a place in the World Cup. Here are the two things observed in the match.
Honduras started poorly but ended triumphantly
Honduras seemed to be intimated playing against a solid Mexico side, who've already secured their place in the World Cup. They barely pass the ball accurately and had few chances up front. Mexico capitalized on their timid look, creating chances and holding more possession in their half.
Later on, the momentum shifted. El Tri became losing possession and the home team began coordinating the midfield. When Romell Quioto took advantage of some poor defending from the visitors, the place apparently exploded. Honduras were able to hold on their lead to full-time and ultimately securing a playoffs spot. Overall, the Hondurans apparently played to instruction.
Juan Carlos Osorio is not bothered losing the match
Despite losing the encounter, Mexico is already through to the World Cup. The match was merely a “novelty” for Juan Carlos Osorio's side. Osorio featured fringe players, resting the likes of Javier Hernandez and Giovani dos Santos. With a 3-1-4-2 formation, giving up Mexico's usual focus on the flanks.
Carlos Vela started in an unaccustomed position on the left of midfield, while at the back, there was a rare start for Oswaldo Alanis on the left side of the three center-backs. However, El Tri was still able to score two goals in the first half but failed to continue the lead in the second half. In the words of Juan Carlos Osorio: “There was no sense at all losing this match as we have already qualified for the World Cup and looking to ease off the gas here.” This apparently shows the defeat meant nothing to Osorio as Honduras was on a mission of their own.
Honduras scheduled playoff match
In the first leg, Honduras will take on Australia on November 6. In the return leg, Australia welcomes Honduras at Stadium Australia, Sydney on November 17.
