Mexico crowned CONCACAF champions for the third consecutive time!

What a great match! Mexico’s men’s under-23 team faced a new refreshing Honduras in the 2021 CONCACAF Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament finals at Akron Stadium on Tuesday, March 30.

Mexico beat Honduras after a full 90 minutes plus extra time, and with a perfect 5-0 penalty shootout, shattering Honduras dreams of raising the CONCACAF cup. Now this guarantees their spot in the 2022 Tokyo Olympics. Honduras who beat the United States 2-1 in the semifinals, denying the U.S. entry to their third straight Olympics, had an Impressive performance against Mexico, unfortunately they didnt win but showed their entire country that their is hope for both the senior team and the upcoming youth teams. “ this team is up to big things, we are hopeful for a successful Olympics and for the country’s level of soccer.” Said Coach, Miguel Falero.

This would be Mexico‘s third time becoming a pre-Olympic champion. Both teams will be part of the Tokyo Olympic Games. After wining the gold medal in the 2012, Mexico is hungry and ready for Tokyo. “ We have demonstrated on and off the field, that the players are well concentrated both in their clubs and in the national team, we train hard mentally and physically, we are fortunate to have great role-models and leaders on this team. “ said Coach Jimmy Lozano

Even though Mexico, was losing 1-0 in the second half, the resilience of the team remained as they did not put their heads down, and created enough luck getting that penalty, against Jose Macias, in the last few minutes of the game. “ we never lost hope, we said we wanted this and that we were coming for it, no matter the time against us, now we want that gold medal, our eyes are on it as much as this objective was. “ Said Alexis Vega. MVP of the match and shooter of the final penalty.

We have demonstrated on and off the field, that the players are well concentrated both in their clubs and in the national team, we train hard mentally and physically, we are fortunate to have great role-models and leaders on this team.... Coach Jimmy Lozano

The future looks bright for these young men, and with the topic of reinforcements still remaining a mystery, if Carlos Vela, of LAFC possibly joining the roster or not everyone is left on stand by as Coach Lozano strictly wants to hold off until the time gets closer. “ As of now we are not looking for anyone in particular, we have a group of great talents, and they all deserve the same opportunity.” Lozano said finishing the press conference short to continue the celebration with the team.

Wendy Pinto

Instagram: iamwendypintor

Photos by CONCACAF