Mexico break through against Croatia after clear handball ignored by ref

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Just like their group-stage opener against Cameroon, Mexico were once again the victims of horrible officiating in their decisive third match against Croatia. And just as they did in the Cameroon match, they overcame those injustices with goals.

Mexico needed at least a draw against Croatia to advance while their opponents were in need of a win and the first half played out like both sides were too worried about each other to take any risks. In the 64th minute, Croatia's Dario Srna blocked the ball in the box with both his arms — a blatant handball that the referee refused to call, denying Mexico a penalty that could have given them the lead.

Chicharito was apoplectic, yelling "handball!" at the ref over and over, but his protests were ignored. This was Croatia's second uncalled handball of the night, but Mexico kept attacking.

In the 72nd minute, captain Rafa Marquez scored with his head to make it 1-0. Three minutes later, Andres Guardado added a second and 10 minutes after that Chicharito added a third. Croatia scored in the 87th minute to make it 3-1, but it was too little too late.

With the win, Mexico finished second in Group A just behind Brazil on goal difference. It's been an amazing turnaround after they only qualified for the World Cup by beating New Zealand in an inter-confederation playoff. They will face the Netherlands in the round of 16.

from Yahoo Sports http://ift.tt/TpsB2t