Uruguay overcome Mexico challenge but both qualify

Group A, 14:00 GMT, June 22, 2010
Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa



Mexico
0 - 1
Uruguay

A first-half goal from Luis Suarez was enough to help Uruguay secure top spot in Group A and progress into second round of the World Cup after a close victory over Mexico, who also qualified.

Scoring Summary

Mexico	Uruguay
	Luis Suárez (43')

Match Stats

Mexico

Uruguay

11(2)	Shots (on Goal)	15(5)
20	Fouls	13
6	Corner Kicks	7
2	Offsides	0
59%	Time of Possession	41%
2	Yellow Cards	1
0	Red Cards	0
4	Saves	2

Match Information

Stadium:	Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa
Attendance:
Match Time:	14:00 GMT
Official(s):	Viktor Kassai

Man of the Match: Diego Perez

MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Diego Perez - The man charged with protecting the back four had an exceptional game. Mexico were out in search for a goal which would have guaranteed their qualification, and Perez was on hand throughout to snuff out the attacks.

Mexico verdict: The team which impressed so much in beating France lacked a cutting edge in this game. They have to be thankful that they had a goal difference buffer against South Africa. With Argentina likely to lie in the second round, they face a tough test.

Uruguay verdict: Uruguay always said they would not be defensive as they were eager to finish top and thus book a meeting with the second placed side from Group B, and they did not disappoint. They played on the counter attack and created the better chances. In truth, as soon as they did get the goal they were happy to protect the lead.

Could do better: Guillermo Franco - Showed the touch of a player who has seen little club football with West Ham United in recent months. If he could control the ball then Mexico may not have lost this match.

Stat attack: Luis Suarez has now scored 53 goals in 60 appearances for club and country this season. On the last 20 occasions that Suarez has found the net in all competitions, he has finished on the winning side.