Mexico defeats Jamiaca in qualifier

Blanco

Mexico coach Sven-Goran Eriksson was delighted with his side's 3-0 win over Jamaica in the CONCACAF Zone of World Cup qualifying on Saturday.


The former England boss was pleased with the improvement on last month's 2-1 triumph over Honduras and wants the positivity to continue.


"It was a 3-0 with high class and attitude," said Eriksson. "We've collected six points so far, but we want to keep winning to continue on the positive road.


"I think we played better than we played against Honduras. We controlled the game but it's quite obvious because we've had more time to train and prepare for the match.


"We controlled the whole game, Jamaica had no more than one chance to score and we built a lot. I like that.


"I think we played very well and we defended very well too. That is important in football. I am truly very happy.


"I know we can play even better in the future but I really liked the way we played here."


Argentina-born striker Matias Vuoso made his debut for Mexico following his naturalization this year.


The 26-year-old former Manchester City forward was delighted to finally represent El Tri, having played in the country since 2003.


"I was quite anxious for this moment and it finally arrived," he said.


"I'm thankful for the support from my team-mates and the technical staff. I know I must work hard to play as well as I can and earn the respect of the fans.


"Playing for this country is very nice. My children were born here and I've spent most of my professional career here. Now I hope I can pay it back by bringing success to the national team."


Mexico play Canada at home on Wednesday in the third round of matches in Group Two.


Mexico defeats Jamaica, 3-0
MEXICO CITY -- In Mexico City, Mexico eased to a 3-0 win over Jamaica to top Group Two.


After just three minutes, a free-kick from Deportivo La Coruna midfielder Andres Guardado handed Sven Goran Eriksson's side the initiative.


Mexico doubled their lead 15 minutes before the break as Jamaican goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts could only punch Pavel Pardo's long range shot and Fernando Arce pounced on the rebound.


And in the second half, defender Jhonny Magallon sealed the victory as Mexico maintained their 100% record.


"Jamaica only had one shot," said Eriksson. "We controlled the match and played well, so we deserved the result.


"But we can't celebrate because we have to prepare for the upcoming match against Canada."


Eriksson played down any concerns over Stuttgart's Pardo saying: "The doctors believe it might be a ligament strain but I want to wait for tomorrow's X-rays."


United States defeats Cuba, 1-0
USA moved into top spot in Group One of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers as Clint Dempsey's first half strike secured a 1-0 win over Cuba at Pedro Marrero National Stadium on Saturday.


Three minutes into the match Cuba's Carlos Domingo's volleyed just wide, while at the other end Landon Donovan rattled the crossbar.


Midfielder Michael Bradley wasted a chance for the visitors before Briang Ching found Dempsey five minutes before the break and Fulham midfielder made no mistake with the left-footed strike.


Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard was called into action in the second half as the USA goalkeeper turned away Roberto Linares' volley and Reysander Fernandez's header to ensure his side top Group One two points clear of Trinidad & Tobago, who drew 1-1 with Guatemala.


Keon Daniel looked to have handed the home side the win as he struck with six minutes left on the clock, but Carlos Gallardo equalized for Guatemala.


Honduras defeats Honduras, 2-1
Also in Group Two, Canada suffered a 2-1 defeat at home against Honduras.


FC Dallas defender Adrian Serioux put the hosts ahead in the first half, but Milton Nunez's brace helped Honduras pick up their first three points to move into second place behind Mexico.


Finally, Costa Rica moved to the top of Group Three after easing to a 7-0 win over Surinam.


Froylan Ledezma scored twice, while Alejandro Alpizar, Freddy Fernandes, Bryan Ruiz, Alonso Solis and Celso Borges netted for Costa Rica, who maintained their 100% record to sit three points clear of El Salvador, who beat Haiti 5-0 courtesy of Rodolfo Zelaya's hat-trick.