Co-hosts out after England won while playing with ten men for over half an hour
Mexico manager Javier Aguirre has said he is proud of his side’s World Cup campaign despite the pain of their elimination after Sunday’s 3-2 defeat to England.
The loss at the Estadio Azteca ended Mexico’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals. Aguirre now steps down to be replaced by Rafa Marquez, who had been appointed assistant coach before the tournament as part of a succession plan.
Aguirre admitted the defeat would be difficult to accept after Mexico’s impressive run to the knockout stage.
“I leave with mixed feelings,” Aguirre said. “On one hand, proud of the family we built and very satisfied with the work done. When you lose, it’s hard to get over it. Success is a path paved with mistakes you’ve overcome. It’s about going from failure to failure until you finally succeed.
“It’s going to be a tough night for all of Mexico, in the locker room and at home. We won’t sleep much. I’m at a loss for words. I’m overcome with emotion. I think the dream ends here.”
England took control of the last-16 tie when Jude Bellingham scored twice in the closing minutes of the first half. Julian Quinones reduced the deficit after the break before both teams converted penalties.
Harry Kane scored for England after Jarell Quansah had earlier been sent off, while Raul Jimenez replied from the spot, but Thomas Tuchel’s side held on with 10 men to book a quarter-final meeting with Norway.
“I would have liked to say goodbye to my people with a victory – for everyone to be satisfied,” Aguirre said. “It hurts. It hurts a lot but well, I don’t have many more words. I’m not going to make excuses; a loss is a loss.
“They scored three goals from four or five shots, while we had 18 shots – six or seven on target – but that counts for nothing. We lost. Our opponent didn’t make mistakes against us. We wish them a great World Cup.”
Aguirre also backed Marquez to continue the progress made by a squad that was a mix of experienced players and younger talent.
“I wish them the best,” Aguirre said. “I gave Rafa a hug. We came from a difficult situation – competing in the Nations League and Gold Cup with a young squad, many of whom are eyeing moves to Europe.
“I’ll leave it to you to judge, but I am happy with the growth of Rafa Márquez and many of the players. They played with the heart of Mexico.”
