Matches involving the USMNT and Mexico are usually feisty affairs, and their latest encounter in the CONCACAF Nations League was no different. Contested in Las Vegas, the game saw multiple flashpoints, tussles between players, and even some abhorrent homophobic chants. In reaction to the wild events of the match, fans online have branded Mexico as the ‘dirtiest team’ in the world.
The chant. pic.twitter.com/s8ZBJ627C1
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 16, 2023
The match itself was relatively smooth sailing for the Americans, as they cruised on the way to a dominant 3-0 victory. But their fluent attacking display on the night was blemished by a series of altercations that saw a total of 4 players sent off.
A sense of hostility had presided over a majority of the game, but it wasn’t until the 68th minute that matters turned violent. It all kicked off after Folarin Balogun was unnecessarily hacked down by Cesar Montes. The Mexican’s reckless swipe led to an angry reaction from Balogun’s teammates, who immediately swarmed the center back. Tugs and shoves ensued, and Montes was promptly red-carded.
Things escalated after Folarin Balogun was tackled on this play.
(via @CBSSportsGolazo) pic.twitter.com/NGnVds6PPG
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 16, 2023
USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie was also sent off on account of his participation in the brawl. While walking off the pitch, McKennie proudly kissed the USMNT badge on his tattered shirt, which further enraged the rancorous away crowd.
INJECT THIS IN MY VEINS 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/NVPdBBbcgQ
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 16, 2023
The situation escalated again in the 84th minute after Sergino Dest received an overly-emphatic challenge from Edson Alvarez. The Ajax midfielder also delivered a stiff shoulder nudge to Dest, who couldn’t help but react angrily. Alvarez’s teammate Gerardo Arteaga came to his compatriot’s aid, resulting in a full-blown melee involving the pair. Both players were sent off following another clash between the teams.
Sergino Dest red card.
(via @CBSSportsGolazo) pic.twitter.com/kFtAPwKUXj
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 16, 2023
It didn’t take long for the chaotic events of the match to trend online, and a majority of fans appear to be assigning the blame on the Mexican team.
These Mexican players have no shame 😂
— ManPenguin (@idkpenguin24) June 16, 2023
Mexico is legitimately one of the dirtiest teams. The fans are throwing trash and in unison chanting homophobic slurs. It’s fucking pathetic man. https://t.co/pTNBvqs61m
— bunda (@boonderpotch) June 16, 2023
Red Card✅
Dirty Fouls ✅
Homophobia ✅
Lost ✅
classic Mexican Football Federation style https://t.co/OF91KHFMtx— Ethan Flores (@_ethanflores_) June 16, 2023
Mexico fans are an embarrassment to the sport #usmnt @CBSSportsGolazo https://t.co/ICWbayxMY4
— Chase Freeman (@tysoncfreeman) June 16, 2023
Happens every time against us. Mexico is so classless. So pathetic. https://t.co/OqnarPzbYk
— Patrick (@patricktraitz) June 16, 2023
Mexico played dirty tonight. Couldn’t handle losing I guess. https://t.co/oPGyDb36bF
— John Ruiz (@TheBeardedMex) June 16, 2023
For all their roughhousing, Mexico was unable to stop the USMNT from running riot at Allegiant Stadium.
USMNT clinches crucial semifinal win over arch-rivals Mexico
The Yanks dominated proceedings for the majority of the 90 minutes. They earned the lead through the talismanic figure of Christian Pulisic, who delivered on the big occasion as he often does. The Chelsea forward added another goal almost immediately after the second-half whistle rang.
And again…I’m telling you man, his box instincts are supreme pic.twitter.com/DE6Qd3wTkc https://t.co/1AOAEwWFjJ
— Sumeet (@flameosumeet) June 16, 2023
USMNT’s dominance continued despite being reduced to 10 men, as Ricardo Pepi made it 3-0 for the Americans. The result serves as an excellent representation of the team, which managed to secure an impressive win while facing plenty of animosity from the Mexicans. The side will now face Canada in the CONCACAF Nations League final on June 19.