Mexican striker Cuauhtemoc Blanco announced his retirement from international football Wednesday, as Mexico defeated Canada 2-1 in a 2010 World Cup qualifier.
Blanco had made his intentions known before the match, in which he went on in the closing moments for Fernando Arce to make his 100th appearance for the national team.
The 35-year-old, who scored 34 goals in 100 appearances for Mexico in his international career, admitted he would have liked to make his final appearance at famed Azteca stadium, but said it was time to make way for younger players.
"The decision was already made," he said to reporters. "I'm content. I believe that my time in the selection is done," said the talented player who is beloved by Mexican fans.
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Blanco made his debut for Mexico on February 1, 1995, in a friendly against Uruguay.
He played in two World Cups, in France in 1998 and South Korea and Japan in 2002, and helped Mexico win the Confederations Cup in 1999. The Mexican MVP in 2004 and 2005 joined the Chicago Fire in April of 2007.
Second-half goals from Omar Blanco and Rafael Marquez gave Mexico the points in Tuxtla Gutierrez. Ali Gerba replied for Canada, who have taken one point from three games in third stage Group Two.
Bravo headed Mexico ahead just before the hour following a cross from the right from Ricardo Osorio, and Blanco increased their lead with another header in the 73rd minute.
Gerba headed Canada's reply after Oswaldo Sanchez misjudged Iain Hume's cross.
The gifted but volatile Blanco came on for the last two minutes and found time to get booked for diving in the penalty area before making the announcement to the Televisa network after the final whistle.
Mexico top the group with a maximum nine points, all from home games. Sven-Goran Eriksson's team also won both legs of a preliminary round tie against Belize.
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2 months ago
A great player. I'll always remember his skill at the 2002 World Cup that had every kid in the world trying to copy. Brilliant.
from 2 months ago
he's still doing good in MLS>
2 months ago
He is a brilliant player, I've seen him play for Mexico a few times. I reckon Mexico could do well with Sven-Goran Eriksson, I thought he was a good manager for Manchester City (althought not as good for England). Also, in the Canada team, look out for a player called Simeon Jackson in a few years time. He will no doubt break into the senior team soon, as he is playing very well at the moment. I know as I see him week in week out for the mighty Gillingham FC! We are in the 4th tier of English football, but he is in great form and Canada should seriously consider him.
Anyway, good article Thomas.
from 2 months ago
thanks Yoosof.
Canada has improved in recent years. too bad Hargreaves decided to be British, Canada could use him.
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