Mexico's Javier Hernandez (pictured) talks to the team trainer after getting medical attention during an international friendly against Honduras on July 1, 2015, in Houston, Texas. (Photo: Mexsport)
HOUSTON – Mexico and Honduras played to a scoreless draw in front of 70,128 at NRG Stadium Wednesday night, but the story of the game was an apparent collarbone injury to Javier ‘Chicharito” Hernandez that will likely sideline the Tricolor star for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The 27-year-old forward left the match in the 41st minute after a collision with Brayan Beckeles caused him to fall awkwardly. Hernandez, who has 40 goals in 75 appearances with Mexico, was taken to an area hospital for evaluation.
“We don’t have a report, all I know is that he went to the hospital,” Mexico head coach Miguel Herrera said in a post-match press conference. “Of course we are impacted by this situation, but you have to think about what is ahead. This is an unfortunate situation which can’t be remedied.”
Mexico was unfortunate not to take the lead in the first half as Carlos Vela’s shot from the top of the 18-yard box caromed off the far post in the 26th minute. The rebound popped out to Hernandez, but he was denied by Donis Escoboar.
Vela also hit the woodwork with a 24-yard free kick in the 37th minute.
Honduras nearly scored the game’s only goal in the 79th minute, when Maynor Figueroa and Andy Najar both had attempts from close range following a scramble in front of goal after a corner kick.
In the first minute of second-half stoppage time, Escobar dived to his left to parry away a 28-yard free kick by Giovani Dos Santos.
Mexico opens Gold Cup play on July 9 in Chicago against Cuba, while Honduras will meet the defending champion United States in Frisco, Texas, two days later.
"We are thinking of Cuba and winning the tournament,” finished Herrera.
