(VIDEO) Mexico Crushes Serbia 5-1 in Final World Cup Warm-Up, Boosting Home Hopes |
TOLUCA, Mexico — Mexico delivered a commanding performance in its final tune-up before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, storming back from an early deficit to thrash Serbia 5-1 on Thursday at Estadio Nemesio Diez. The convincing victory provides the co-hosts with significant momentum heading into next week's tournament opener against South Africa.
The hosts trailed 1-0 after Petar Stanic capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 19th minute, but responded with four unanswered goals in a dominant display that showcased attacking depth and resilience. A vocal crowd of home supporters celebrated wildly at the final whistle as fireworks lit up the night sky in Toluca, signaling Mexico's readiness for the pressure of opening the expanded 48-team competition on home soil.
Serbia struck first when Stanic fired a low shot past goalkeeper Raul Rangel following a fortunate deflection. Mexico, however, gradually seized control of possession and territory. The equalizer arrived in the 34th minute through defender Johan Vasquez, who rose highest to head home Brian Gutierrez's precise delivery.
The turnaround was completed in first-half stoppage time when Serbia's Stefan Bukinac inadvertently sent a back pass rolling beyond his own goalkeeper Filip Stankovic. The own goal gave Mexico a 2-1 lead at the break and shifted momentum decisively.
Mexico's attacking pressure intensified after halftime. Raul Jimenez scored from close range in the 57th minute after Julian Quinones' effort........