KAZAN, Russia -- Three quick thoughts from Mexico's 2-1 win over Russia in the Confederations Cup group stage.
1. Mexico weathers Russian storm
Mexico has been behind in all three of its Confederations Cup games so far, but is through to the semifinal, finishing as runner-up in Group A following its 2-1 victory over Russia on Saturday in Kazan.
This was a case of Mexico getting the job done in front of 41,585 home fans in Kazan Arena and Russia provided a stern test, especially in the first half.
The home side deservedly went ahead when Aleksandr Samedov stroked in after 25 minutes and the crowd sensed an unlikely victory for a Russia team that was struggling to get the public excited ahead of the tournament.