MONTERREY, Mexico (AP) : Elias Hernandez scored in the 89th minute Tuesday to lift Mexico to a 1-0 victory over Colombia in what was otherwise a lackluster match for both teams.
Hernandez, who came on as a substitute in the 54th minute for Pablo Barrera, fired the ball in from 15 meters (yards), the most exciting play of a match that lacked much clarity. It was Mexico's first victory in three friendlies since the World Cup.
Mexico is sure to come under criticism for its performance. The Aztecs played a 1-1 draw last month with World Cup champion Spain under Enrique Meza serving as interim coach. Efrain Flores coached Saturday's 2-1 loss to Ecuador and Tuesday's victory. Neither is a candidate to replace Javier Aguirre, who resigned a few days after Mexico was knocked out of the World Cup in the round of 16 by Argentina.
Colombia, which did not qualify for the World Cup, defeated Venezuela 2-0 Saturday.
"The important thing was winning," Mexico midfielder Andres Guardado said. "We scored at the last minute and we have a lot to improve."
Flores, a director at Guadalajara club Chivas, said goodbye to the team and wished Mexican officials luck in finding a new coach.
"The (Mexican) federation is working on it and I am sure they will choose the best," he said.
Colombia had its best scoring chance in the 77th when Juan Valencia's shot was stopped by Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. Hugo Rodallega hit the post in second-half injury time. AP
