The U.S. men’s national team extended its unbeaten run against rivals Mexico to five matches in all competitions, but needed a late equalizing goal to do so.
Jesus Ferreira’s 82nd minute tying goal helped Anthony Hudson’s squad fight back to earn a 1-1 draw against El Tri in the first-ever Continental Clasico. Uriel Antuna’s breakaway finish early in the second half propelled Diego Cocca’s squad in front, but the Americans used a clinical counter attack to avoid a first head-to-head loss since 2019.
Cade Cowell’s dangerous upfield pass in the fourth minute almost led to an early goal for the USMNT as Jordan Morris’ pressure led to Carlos Acevedo racing off his line to clear his lines.
However, that would be the best look for the Americans in the first half as Mexico held the edge in possession and chances. Luis Chavez missed a pair of long-range efforts while the USMNT backline were able to keep Alexis Vega and Roberto de la Rosa in check.
Sergino Dest and Julian Araujo battled heavily on the right wing, with the AC Milan defender holding his own and keeping the 21-year-old right back at bay.
Mexico continued its pressure in the second half and was able to make the USMNT pay only 10 minutes after halftime. Kellyn Acosta’s poor back pass and Aaron Long’s mistimed clearance allowed Uriel Antuna the opportunity to pickpocket Long and race upfield before slotting home past Sean Johnson.
It was Antuna’s 10th-career international goal.
Luis Chavez’s dangerous left-footed free kick in the 69th minute forced Johnson to scramble to his left but the veteran keeper watched the shot miss just wide.
Johnson’s diving two-handed save on de la Rosa’s right-footed shot just three minutes later kept Mexico from icing the victory. A failed offensive attempt from the USMNT led to a fast break for El Tri and de la Rosa’s low drive forced Johnson to punch the striker’s shot out for a corner.
Carlos Rodriguez rattled the crossbar in the 80th minute and the USMNT made Mexico pay on its ensuing counter attack.
Sergino Dest dangled past three Mexico players before springing Alan Sonora upfield. Sonora’s link-up with Jordan Morris led to Morris’ cross into the box, which was tapped home by Jesus Ferreira for a 1-1 equalizer.
Neither team could find a winning goal, having to settle for a 1-1 draw.
The USMNT is back in action this June against Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals.