August 16, 2012
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
El Tri can’t get a goal against USA

Michael Orozco Fiscal, who plays for San Luis in Liga MX, scored the game-winning goal for the United States against Mexico on Wednesday night. Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images

MEXICO CITY—Despite creating the better chances all night, Mexico could not avoid their date with history on Wednesday night, falling 1-0 for their first-ever loss to the United States at venerable Azteca Stadium.

Chance after chance went begging for El Tri, starting with Jorge Torres’ shot off the post in the 28th minute. Minutes later, US defender Geoff Cameron robbed Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez of an open shot on goal. It was the start of a nightmare night for Hernandez, who had two golden chances to score late in the second half, only to be thwarted by U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard. Hernandez caught Howard going the wrong way in the 85th minute, but the US netminder scrambled to make the last-second stop. And four minutes later, Howard blocked Hernandez’s point-blank attempt.

The Americans fielded a roster of largely MLS- and Liga MX-based players, and were unable to hold possession against Mexico for much of the match. But three late substitutes combined to deliver the game-winning goal in the 79th minute. Brek Shea beat his man on the left flank and sent the ball into the middle of the penalty area to Terrence Boyd. Boyd, standing with his back to the goal, backheeled the ball to San Luis forward Michael Orozco Fiscal, who slipped it past goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

Mexico’s roster was missing several standouts who were part of the Tricolor’s Gold Medal-winning squad at the London Olympic Games, whose achievement was honored in a halftime ceremony.