Mexico's Cesar Montes apologizes for expulsion against USMNT

Mexican national team figure Cesar Montes apologized for his expulsion during the 3-0 defeat to the United States, explaining he “channeled frustrations in the worst way” after receiving a red card for engaging in a physical altercation with several American players. 

Tensions began to rise after goals from Christian Pulisic and Ricardo Pepi propelled the American side closer to the Nations League final against Canada. But the game took a heated turn in the 85th minute, as confrontations became physical and forced the expulsions of Weston McKennie, Sergino Dest, Gerardo Arteaga and Cesar Montes. 

Montes admitted there is no excuse for violence on and off the pitch as players of the Mexican national team should serve as inspiration for younger generations.

"I channeled the frustration of the game in the worst way, I am sorry (for the expulsion) and I apologize to my teammates, the rival team and the fans. As footballers we are exposed to many things, especially the children who watch us and we were not an example for them at that time on the pitch, but I hope to be," he stated on Saturday. 

The defender went on to add that the team regrouped following the “difficult” defeat, disproving reports that chaos unfolded within the locker room with players requesting to leave ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign. 

“It was a difficult match, we closed ranks, we had our mourning process after the defeat. The group is very good, coaching staff and players, we analyze the mistakes we made so that what happened doesn't happen to us again."

"They really surpassed us, we have to accept it, understand it, we have to find a way to improve, to correct it, together we have to overcome this and continue to grow,” added head coach Diego Cocca. 

El Tri returns to action on Sunday against Panama, before facing Haiti, Qatar and Honduras in the Gold Cup’s group B.