Mexico draws Colombia in Rafa Marquez's coaching debut
Rafa Marquez started his first match as Mexico manager with a 1-1 draw against Colombia on 26 September.
Rafa Marquez, who captained Mexico in five World Cups as a player and won two Champions League titles with Barcelona, took charge of the national team after the summer World Cup. In his debut at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Mexico drew 1-1 with Colombia.
17-year-old Gilberto Mora scored an equaliser in the second half, his first senior goal in his 14th appearance for the national team. Marquez told reporters after the match that he had no plans to radically change the style of play Javier Aguirre had used.
The result marks the start of Mexico's cycle for the 2030 World Cup. Mexico faces Peru, the United States and Chile in friendlies over the next two weeks.
- 17 years old
- Gilberto Mora age
- 14th for Mexico
- Mora's appearance count
- 26 September
- Match date
- M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
- Stadium
Why it mattersA new coach and young talent signal a refresh for Mexico heading into the next World Cup, though fans will want to see more attacking flair.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but Mexico is a major football nation watched by local soccer fans and is a regular World Cup contender.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 10 h ago
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