Mexico world cup soccer campaign at the 2006 World Cup in Germany was short lived. The CONCACAF giants were defeated by South American heavy weights Argentina in the second round.
Mexico, one of the eight seeded teams of the 2006 World Cup, was placed in Group D along with Portugal, Angola and Iran. This was the 13th time the Mexicans were playing in the final stage of the World Cup. Nicknamed The Tricolores or El Tri, Mexico soccer team started their campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Iran. However, Mexico national soccer team could only manage a goalless draw against Angola in their second match.
In their final group match, Mexico faced the formidable Portuguese. Omar Bravo missed a penalty as the El Tri went down 1-2. With four points in their bag, Mexico made it to the second round behind Portugal from Group D.
In the second round played at Zentralstadion in Leipzig in front of 43,000 spectators, the Mexicans took the lead against Argentina in the 5th minute. Captain Rafael Marquez scored for the Mexicans. However, Hernan Crespo restored parity for Argentina four minutes later. The match remained locked at 1-1 after regulation time. In the extra-time, a brilliant volley from Maxi Rodriguez sealed the match for Argentina, sending the Central American champions crashing out.
Bravo was the top scorer among the Mexico soccer players with two goals to his credit. Taking the onus of the team’s defeat, Coach Ricardo Lavolpe resigned from his post. He was succeeded by Hugo Sanchez, one of the greatest players that Mexico soccer ever produced.
