Mexico manager Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino has confirmed he will leave his role World Cup exit inside Qatar.
Goals from Henry Martin and Luis Chavez put El Tri within reach of the knockout stage of the competition in their must-win game against Saudi Arabia in a thrilling conclusion to Group C action on Wednesday.
While Argentina were in control of their game and went through as group winners, Mexico and Poland were tied on points, goals for and goals conceded going into the final minutes – a situation that would have seen the latter progress thanks to their superior fair play. record with fewer yellow cards.
In the end, Mexico were eliminated on goal difference after Saudi Arabia scored a late consolation goal through Salem Al-Dawsari deep in stoppage time.
Reports ahead of kick-off claimed former Barcelona manager Martino would walk out if his side failed to qualify for the knockout stage.
The Argentine confirmed after the match that he would indeed step aside, telling Fox Soccer after the 2-1 win: “My contract expired as soon as the referee whistled.
“I am the man responsible for the frustration and disappointment. It’s real sadness and I take full responsibility for this huge failure.’
After a goalless draw in their opener against Poland and a 2-0 defeat to Argentina on Saturday, Mexico turned up a thrilling performance against Saudi Arabia that proved too little too late.
El Tri saw two attempts disallowed for offside, with Chavez denied a second stunning free-kick after a stunning effort from 30 yards out.
“We outplayed the opponent and created more chances and we could have scored as many goals as needed,” Martino added.
“That’s why we went for the third goal and added two center forwards together.
“We knew that Poland had less yellow and we went out, so it was necessary at that time.
“But we failed and I don’t think we got knocked out in the previous games, but today.
“I think we should analyze this more thoroughly when we have a clear mind. This is the reality. We are in a vulnerable position because we are out of the World Cup.’
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