GUADALJARA, Mexico (AP) — Mexico is minutes away from clinching a spot in the finals. world cup In the game, co-hosted between the United States and Canada, goalkeeper Raul “Tara” Rangel extended his right arm and placed his hand in the perfect position to prevent the ball from crossing the line, denying South Korea an equalizer.
The 87th-minute save was made by the goalkeeper, who is from the Guadalajara area and plays for local club Chivas. 1-0 victory Mexico finished Group A in first place, making El Tri the first team to advance from the group stage.
“It was very quick and it was a pure reaction,” Rangel said. “I can’t say exactly what I saw because I remember the impact moment when I had the ball with my teammates, but I think I was really focused. I came through when the team needed me, so I’m happy with that.”
Rangel, 26, had two big shots in decisive plays.
he stopped Yang Hyun Joong’s attempt Immediately after saving Cho Gu Sung’s close range header, he took the shot with his outstretched arm. The ball bounced when Rangel collided with a teammate heading to the ground, but he was able to block Yang’s attack with the rebound.
Rangel earned a starting role at the World Cup after Luis Angel Malagon, who was expected to be Mexico’s starting goalie, was injured earlier this year.
Coach Javier Aguirre said he was confident Rangel would score at the World Cup.
“From the first time I called him up, he showed me a lot of determination,” said Aguirre. “He played very well for the team this season.”
Rangel’s Chivas play at Estadio Akron, the World Cup venue in Guadalajara. Luis Romo, who scored Mexico’s goal on Thursday, also plays for a club that traditionally only features players from Mexico.
Coach Aguirre said, “Tara is happy to be home.” “And I’m happy for him.”
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AP World Cup: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup
