PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea – Mexico launched its 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Group D rival Korea Republic on Monday at the National Football Stadium.
It was the Tricolor’s fifth victory in 21 all-time games in the competition, including two triumphs in three attempts against the Koreans.
A scoreless first half produced one solid chance as a left-footed effort by Mexico’s Belen Cruz forced a save from goalkeeper Minjuk Kim, before crashing off the crossbar.
Four minutes into the second half, however, Mexico took a 1-0 lead. Maria Sanchez made a skillful run from the left wing into the Korean box and eluded a pair of defenders only to see her shot from close range be deflected. The ball fell to an unmarked Jacqueline Crowther at the right post. Her first shot was scuffed, but the Baylor University forward maintained composure to jab home with her right foot.
With a minute remaining in normal time, Kiana Palacios netted an insurance goal from eight-yards out after beating a quartet of tiring defenders in the box off the dribble.
Mexico will return to action Thursday against Germany, which posted a 3-1 win over Venezuela.
