New Zealand vs. Mexico: Score and Twitter Reaction for 2016 Friendly

Nissan Stadium, which is home of the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, was draped in red, white and green on Saturday night as the Mexican national soccer team defeated New Zealand 2-1 in an international friendly. 

Mexico bossed 65 percent of the possession and attempted 13 shots, but New Zealand proved to be a difficult opponent despite its lack of soccer success with eight shots and six corners. 

Before the festivities even began, Saturday night provided a special moment for Mexico striker Giovani Dos Santos, who reannounced his presence with El Tri in style, per ESPN FC’s Tom Marshall:

450 days since his last appearance, Giovani dos Santos takes to the field for Mexico wearing the captain’s armband.

— Tom Marshall (@mexicoworldcup) October 8, 2016

However, it appeared as though this wouldn’t be much of a competitive match based strictly on world rankings. Heading into Saturday night, Mexico was ranked 15th in the world by FIFA, while New Zealand was 88th. 

Recording artists Boombox Cartel thought the same thing:

Mexico bout to shred New Zealand 3-0 ⚽️⚽️⚽️zup @QUIXofficial

— Boombox Cartel (@BoomboxCartel) October 8, 2016

But a tentative start allowed New Zealand to set up shop at the back and use its physical play to keep Mexico at bay.

It was the All-Whites who came up with the first big chance of the match when midfielder Marco Rojas weaved his way through the Mexican defense into the box, but Mexico goalkeeper Jose Corona saved his low shot.

Marshall wasn’t impressed with Mexico’s start:

Difficult first 15 minutes for Mexico. Looks like they …

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