A sold-out crowd of 70,072 gathered at Mercedes-Benz Stadium to watch Mexico draw Honduras nil-nil. The attendance is believed to be the largest soccer crowd in the world since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of Mexico’s annual U.S. Tour, El Tricolor took on Honduras just days after losing the Concacaf Nations League final. The Hondurans came out victors in the third place match against Costa Rica.
For the thousands of Mexico fans, it was their chance to see the likes of Hector Moreno, Jesus Gallardo, and Diego Lainez in-person. For Honduras supporters, it was the likes of Antony Lozano, Jorge Benguche, and Maynor Figueroa that drew the crowds draped in white and blue.
Mexico’s best chance in the first half came in the 29′ minute when an attempted volley by Carlos Rodriguez ricocheted off the far post and back into play.
In the 45′ minute, Honduras had their best chance at breaking the deadlock. Jorge Benguche had a small window of opportunity from a sharp angle and went for it, sending Mexico’s keeper flying to his near post for the save.
Uriel Antuna’s attempt was Mexico’s last chance at goal before the final whistle. A beautiful long ball came straight to him while unmarked in the box. His header, while acrobatic in nature, went across the face of goal and past the far post out of bounds.
There wasn’t much to the match on the pitch, it was more the environment. For many, this was not only a chance to get outside, but a chance to gather for an international friendly. The camaraderie was visible everywhere: the tailgates, the stands, the streets of downtown, everywhere you look was littered with fans of both sides. It was a beautiful night for a football match.
Mexico will hit the road and prepare for their next match on the #MexTOUR in Nashville, TN, against Panama on June 30.
-Jon J.
Photos: Anna Lira
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