Mexico 2-0 Ghana: Chucky Lozano and Uriel Antuna clinch win
- Chucky Lozano marked his return from injury with a goal in the win against Ghana
- Jaime Lozano earned his first win since becoming El Tri's official head coach
- Manager praised Mexico for staying 'faithful' to game plan during 2-0 victory
The Mexican national team triumphed 2-0 over Ghana on Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium as goals from Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano and Uriel Antuna secured their first victory of the October international window.
The first half saw little action on both ends as 18 fouls and zero shots on goal characterized the opening minutes. El Tri displayed the defensive progress made under head coach Jaime Lozano by limiting Ghana to zero shots on goal while the rival held 54% possession.
Mexico returned for the second 45 with a much-needed jolt, capitalizing on the newfound energy to constantly reach the final third. The team made progress, building through the midfield before Ghana's Salis Abdul Samed fouled Edson Alvarez to award El Tri the free-kick opportunity that set up the opening goal.
Luis Chavez rushed to find Chucky on the left, inspiring the winger to cut into the 18-yard box and rocket the ball past goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi in the 57th minute. El Tri then doubled the score when substitute Cesar Huerta played a through ball to Antuna, who crossed the shot into the opposite corner.
Lozano hailed the victory, pointing out the defensive work needed to maintain the clean sheet.
"I liked the defensive work, the pressures were better, we were very close, few options from the rival, that will always be good and from what we were in September to today with a very strong and powerful rival, for me it is what stands out the most," he said after the game.
"Keeping zero at the back, also being clearer up front because we were patient. Beyond the result, I liked the team because it was faithful to a game idea."
Head coach Lozano continued his excellent start in charge, managing an overall record of 6W-2D-1L since taking over as interim manager in June.
Mexico now prepares to face Germany at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Tuesday night to close out the October international friendlies.
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