• Mexico beats Suriname.
• El Tri had the perfect start to the match with a third-minute goal.
• The penalty attempt by Marcelo Flores was saved.

Mexico delivered another mediocre performance in a 3-0 home win over Suriname, which is ranked 141 in the world. Just months before the World Cup in Qatar.

Mexico struggled in the buildup and created few clear-cut opportunities: El Tri won its CONCACAF Nations League opener thanks to a missed clearance, a clumsy penalty foul, and a deflected shot.

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El Tri had the perfect start to the match with a third-minute goal on a spectacular volley finish by Israel Reyes, who took advantage of a whiff by a Suriname defender.

A stoppage-time goal by Erick Sanchez ended the game on a positive note, but manager Gerardo “Tata” Martino will undoubtedly face criticism for his team’s overall performance.

Mexico had a second penalty within the last ten minutes, but Arsenal Under-23 player Marcelo Flores’ attempt was saved. Flores was substituted into the game with nine minutes remaining after the crowd demanded it. His brilliant through ball to Orbelin Pineda resulted in the penalty after the Suriname goalkeeper tripped him up.

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In his few minutes on the field, Marcelo Flores expressed personality, and Erick Sanchez provided energy to the team in midfield to close out the game.