DOHA, Qatar — Mexico and Poland kicked off their 2022 World Cup run with a 0-0 draw on Tuesday.
In a packed Stadium 974 with 39,369 in attendance, Mexico dominated possession and had boisterous support throughout the stands, but struggled to break down a defensive Polish side. In the second half, a penalty in Poland’s favor appeared ready to open up the scoresheet, before Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa dramatically saved Robert Lewandowski‘s attempt in the 58th minute.
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With no goals by the final whistle and a point each, Saudi Arabia are the current leaders of Group C after a stunning 2-1 result over Argentina earlier in the day.
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Rapid Reaction
1. Guillermo Ochoa, once again, Mexico’s savior
Time and time again, Mexico have literally been saved by Ochoa. After stepping up with crucial performances in the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, Ochoa would make his mark once again after saving a penalty in the 58th minute from Lewandowski, sending the heavily pro-Mexico crowd into a frenzy.
El Tri weren’t able to respond on the other end of the pitch and finished scoreless in the 0-0 draw, but the save from Ochoa undoubtedly felt just as impactful as any goal that a player could have scored that night for Mexico.
In the remaining group stage matches, expect the 37-year-old to once again be an invaluable figure in net.
