Mexico and Argentina have become familiar adversaries over the past few days. The two countries met in the semifinals of the Copa America last Wednesday, with Argentina running away with a 3–0 win. The last time the two met at the U-20 level was in Nigeria in 1999 where Mexico won comfortably 4–1.
Argentina vs. Mexico was the most highly-anticipated of all four quarterfinal matches. Ottawa was really lucky to stage this one.
There was huge fan interest in this match—a match-up worthy of being the tournament final. It was another sell-out at Frank Clair Stadium as 26,559 fans packed in. Fans without tickets lined up on the Bank Street bridge at the West end of Frank Clair Stadium to see the action.
This day, July 15, was also FIFA's day to show a red card to racism. Prior to the match, the captains of each team read a declaration to not tolerate racism. Kudos to FIFA for making a stance against racism part of the opening ceremonies.
The first half featured fast, aggressive play with both teams going toe-to-toe. A good battle would develop between Mexican star Gio Dos Santos and Argentine giant Federico Fazio in central defense. Tempers would also start to flare up as the game progressed.
The best early chances fell to the Mexicans as Carlos Vela's shot squeaked through Argentinean goalkeeper Sergio Romero's legs but then went narrowly wide. Vela would create a great chance in the 30th minute as his turn-around shot rattled off the post.
Right at the end of the first half, Mexico gifted Argentina with the ball just outside their 18-yard box. The South Americans made quick work as little Maxi Moralez received a pass and his deflected shot bulged the net. Unbelievable. Mexico had done so well against Argentina but found themselves down 1–0 because of a mental lapse in defense.
Mexico started to dominate in possession in the second half but Argentina defended comfortably. Argentine ace Sergio Aguero began seeing more space and opportunities as the South Americans became more dangerous on the counter-attack.
Gio Dos Santos picked up a yellow card and his frustrations started to mount as calls started going against him.
Mexican coach Jesus Ramirez questioned the refereeing: "FIFA Fair Play only seemed to be a slogan…The referee unfortunately wasn't fair. "
Mexico was unable to penetrate the Argentine defense. Their attacks played to Argentina's strengths in defending.
Argentine coach Hugo Tocalli praised his defense. "We did a great job in defense, our only mistake was not finishing all our chances."
Ultimately, Mexico was left with a difficult defeat to ponder. "My players gave all they had, showed a lot of heart. It's difficult to lose this way," said Ramirez.
Argentina moves on to face Chile in an all-South American semifinal in Toronto this Thursday. Earlier in the day, Chile beat Nigeria by the misleading score of 4–0 after extra time.
The other semifinal features two European teams seeking to make a name for themselves, Austria and the Czech Republic.
"We did well against European teams, but we'll only worry about them if we beat Chile," said Argentine captain Matias Cahais when asked about the difference in defending South American and European opposition.
Finally, Tocalli commented on his experience thus far in Canada but not without expressing his feelings about the artificial turf. "We're very happy about how we've been treated in Canada.
"We're not happy about the artificial turf due to the injuries and fatigue it causes the players. It's something for FIFA to think about."
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