Mexico vs. Japan Final Score: El Tri Ends 2013 Confederations Cup With 2-1 Win

Jun 3, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Mexico forward Giovani dos Santos (10) and forward Javier Chicharito Hernandez (14) and midfielder Andres Guardado (18) celebrate a goal against Brazil during the first half at Cowboys Stadium. Mexico shut out Brazil 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

After what was a rough outing at the 2013 Confederations Cup, Mexico was able to end their run on a high note with a win 2-1 over Japan. It was the final game of the tournament for both teams, who were already eliminated heading in to the match up and only playing for pride.

It was a rough first half that saw missed opportunities from both sides, but things changed when El Tri came out with much more energy in the second half. 

Japan was on their heels for the early going of the final forty five minutes with Mexico attacking early and often. A number of chances tested the Japanese keeper, before Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez was able to sneak a header in to the back of the net.

After the goal, Mexico continued to attack and threaten on offense, but Japan continued to put pressure on the El Tri defense with a string of dangerous counter attacks.

However, Mexico stayed composed and it was just minutes later that another header from Chicharito extended the team’s lead to 2-0. It was the 18th time in Chicharito’s career that he scored two goals in a game. Fans of Mexico were left wondering where this offensive attack was all tournament long.

With just five minutes remaining in regulation, Japan’s Okazaki was able to break through and sneak one in to the Mexico net to close the lead with a few minutes remaining in the game.

El Tri was able to hold off the late charge from Japan and ultimately landed a penalty kick opportunity in stoppage time. Chicharito lined up to take the kick, but Kawashima came up with the huge save. Chicharito followed up with a rebound shot, but it drilled the crossbar.

It was a strong finish in what was otherwise a very disappointing appearance in the Confederations Cup.

Mexico will now turn their attention to the CONCACAF Gold Cup, though only one player from the Confederations Cup squad will report, before focusing on finishing World Cup qualifying strong and earning a berth in the 2014 World Cup in Rio.