Watch Mexico vs Jamaica full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 01:00 (GMT) on 23rd June 2024
The referee for this match is I. Elfath
Game played at NRG Stadium
This is a match in South America – CONMEBOL Copa America, Group B, Season 2024
Mexico Opens Copa América Campaign with Narrow 1-0 Win Over Jamaica
Mexico kicked off their Copa América campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Jamaica at NRG Stadium, extending their head-to-head unbeaten run against the Reggae Boyz to six games (W4, D2).
Dominant Start but Missed Opportunities
El Tri looked in control from the outset and nearly opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Luis Chávez was brilliantly denied by Jamaican goalkeeper Jahmali Waite. Despite their early dominance, Mexico struggled to convert possession into clear-cut chances, with the final ball often lacking precision. Jamaica, content to play on the counter, attempted to leverage the pace of their forwards but posed little threat to Julio González, who was making his competitive debut for Mexico.
Injuries and Slow Pace
The first half was marked by a significant injury to Mexico’s Édson Álvarez, who was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury. His replacement, Luis Romo, nearly scored just before halftime, but his effort went narrowly wide, leaving the game goalless at the break.
Second Half: Disallowed Goal and Mexican Breakthrough
Jamaica thought they had taken the lead five minutes into the second half when Michail Antonio headed in from close range, but the goal was ruled out for offside. This served as a wake-up call for Mexico, who began to press more aggressively.
Luis Chávez was again denied by Waite, but the breakthrough finally came in the 69th minute. Gerardo Arteaga unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box that found the back of the net, giving Mexico the lead.
Holding On for the Win
After taking the lead, Mexico sought to extend their advantage but found Waite in fine form. Jamaica also created a few opportunities to equalize but ultimately could not break down Mexico’s defense. Jaime Lozano’s men held on to secure the three points.
Looking Ahead
With this win, Mexico will aim to secure their place in the quarter-finals with a victory over Venezuela next Wednesday. Jamaica, needing significant improvement, will look for their first points of the tournament against Ecuador on the same day.
Key Moments
- Early Save: Jahmali Waite’s brilliant save on Luis Chávez in the fourth minute.
- Injury Blow: Édson Álvarez’s hamstring injury, leading to his substitution.
- Disallowed Goal: Michail Antonio’s headed effort ruled out for offside.
- Winning Goal: Gerardo Arteaga’s powerful strike from the edge of the box in the 69th minute.
Conclusion
Mexico’s 1-0 victory over Jamaica was a testament to their resilience and ability to capitalize on key moments. Despite a slow-paced and injury-hit first half, El Tri found the decisive goal and now look forward to strengthening their position in the group. Jamaica, meanwhile, must regroup and seek a much-needed win against Ecuador.