Women’s Gold Cup semifinals: Brazil thrashes Mexico and advances to the finals

• Brazil beats Mexico in the W Gold Cup semifinals.
• Pedro López’s successful strategy.
• Mexico hoped to make history.

In the inaugural edition of the Concacaf W Gold Cup, the Mexican Women’s National Team, led by Pedro López, has emerged as a major surprise of the tournament.

Invited to face off against several South American teams, the Tricolores have secured significant victories that propelled them to the semifinals.

On Wednesday, March 6, at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California, they sought to make history as they face the formidable Brazil squad in their quest for a spot in the final.

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A path marked by uncertainty

From the beginning, the Mexican national team’s journey has been marked by uncertainty, especially after the goal-less draw in the group stage against Argentina.

However, the team managed to regroup and overcome adversity to find themselves just one step away from the coveted final in this high-caliber international tournament.

Spanish coach Pedro López, the architect of this outstanding performance, was not immune to criticism for excluding prominent forwards such as Katty Martínez from América or Alicia Cervantes from Chivas from the squad.

These decisions raised questions among fans and the press, but so far, they have been overshadowed by the team’s solid and cohesive performance on the field.

Mexico’s performance in the W Gold Cup

Despite the absence of prominent figures, the Mexican Women’s National Team has proven their worth in every match. They have consolidated themselves as a united and committed team with a clear objective.

The lack of some standout players has not dampened the spirit of a team that has demonstrated quality and determination in every phase of the tournament.

Now, facing Brazil in the semifinals, the team led by López hoped to leave behind any skepticism and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in women’s football.

Snapdragon Stadium witnessed an exciting showdown where Mexico looked to capitalize on the winning momentum that brought them to this crucial stage.

Was Mexico robbed?

Mexico’s dream to reach the Women’s Gold Cup final was crushed by one of the greatest forces in football.

Brazil came in as strong favorites to win this match, as in the first 45 minutes, the South Americans appeared superior to the Aztecs.

Following a serious defensive error from Mexico, Adriana Leal would put the Verde Amarela ahead (21′). Things would get even more complicated for El Tri with the expulsion of Nicolette Hernández (29′).

The lead further increased when forward Antonia, with a powerful shot from outside the box (32′), made it two-nil in the first half.

Brazil took the lead

Starting the second half, Brazil went all out on the attack to further extend their lead, which they achieved quickly.

Yasmim Assis sealed the tie (48′), with a backheel inside the penalty area to beat the Mexican goalkeeper and make it 3-0.

After changes by both teams, the game became a bit congested in midfield, reducing the chances for a goal.

Ultimately, the Mexican teams dreams of reaching the finals were dashed.

Brazil beats Mexico in the W Gold Cup semifinals

Mexico reached the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup with three clean sheets in the group stage, capped by that victory over the powerful Americans, only their second win over the U.S.

Although Mexico did not qualify for last year’s World Cup, it has still not lost an international match since a defeat in a friendly in September 2022.

The Aztecs conceded their first two goals of the Gold Cup last Sunday against Paraguay when they secured their spot in the semifinals with a 3-2 scoreline, according to The Associated Press.

Nevertheless, they persevered with the backing of a crowd of 13,229 spectators in the U.S. city considered Mexico’s second home venue.