West Ham United midfielder Edson Álvarez captained Mexico to back-to-back victories at the CONCACAF Gold Cup, helping his nation book their place in the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Suriname in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday evening.
Centre-back César Montes, who also found the net in Mexico’s group-stage opener against the Dominican Republic, struck twice in the second half to seal the win, as El Tri continue their push for a record-extending ninth Gold Cup title.
Despite dominating the first half and creating several clear chances, Mexico were unable to convert and went into the break goalless. Their breakthrough came in the 57th minute, when Montes headed home unmarked from a corner. Just six minutes later, he doubled his tally, again from a set piece, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the box to make it 2-0. That’s now four of Mexico’s five goals at the tournament so far that have come from corners.
Álvarez was winning 88th senior cap at AT&T Stadium. He scored his sixth international goal in the opening 4-0 win over Suriname.
With a quarter-final spot now secured, Álvarez and his teammates will turn their attention to Monday’s Group A decider against Costa Rica in Las Vegas, with top spot on the line.
Find out more about the Hammers who have shone at the CONCACAF Gold Cup in its 34-year history HERE.
