Dominant Mexico see off Korea Republic in U-20 FIFA World Cup

Mexico opened their FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Papua New Guinea 2016 campaign with a victory over 2010 bronze winners Korea Republic. Jacqueline Crowther fired El Tricolor in front on 56 minutes, with Kiana Palacios sealing the victory late on.

In a first-half of few clear-cut chances, it was Mexico who enjoyed the better of the opportunities. Kiana Palacios' superb run down the Mexican left created space for her to cross into the box for Belen Cruz after nine minutes, but her effort was denied by a valiant stop from Minjuk Kim. Maria Sanchez then went close with a free-kick from just outside the area on the half-hour mark.

The Mexicans then piled on the pressure in the second half and their persistence paid off when Crowther’s fired them in front four minutes before the hour mark. Three defenders couldn't stop Maria Sanchez as she raced down the left flank, with her deflected effort landing in Crowther's path, who easily slotted home from close range.

Mexico, who bowed out at the group stage in 2014, continued to dominate play and came close to extending their advantage on 83 minutes when another tormenting run from Sanchez caused problems for Korea Republic before her cross found Eva Gonzalez, whose header was cleared away.

Mexico eventually extended their lead when Palacios received the ball from a throw-in inside the box, produced a marvellous turn, dribbled through three defenders and found the net to cap off a wonderful move and wrap up the victory with second remaining of normal time. Mexico next face reigning champions Germany in Group D on Thursday, while Korea Republic meet Venezuela later the same day.

Source: www.fifa.com