An extra-time goal by Javier Hernandez helped Mexico to beat Honduras 2-0 and set up a Gold Cup final on Saturday against host nation USA.
Over the last 12 months, Chicharito has scored all manner of goals, with all manner of body parts. Even his first competitive United goal - against Chelsea in the Community Shield in August 2010 - was unusual, deflecting in off his face. On Wednesday evening in Houston he notched his 21st for Mexico with a mix of his right hand and hip.
It sent Mexico 2-0 up in extra time, after the first 90 minutes had ended goalless in a game that was full of rough challenges. Mexico had the best chances, though, with Hernandez heading wide in the 73rd minute when he looked certain to score after losing his marker. Then, in the 87th minute, Chicharito played a slide-rule ball to send Giovani Dos Santos through for a one-on-one, only for the Spurs player to strike it wide of the far post.
After missing such presentable chances, Mexico started extra time with a renewed sense of urgency. In the second minute, Aldo de Nigris rose high from a corner to nod home and send the majority of the 80,000-capacity crowd into raptures. Seven minutes later, de Nigris again beat the Honduran defence from a corner and headed the ball to the far post. Standing alone was Chicharito, who squeezed the ball in. “Chicharomania” was once again in full effect.
Hernandez is likely to start against the USA in Saturday's Gold Cup final in California (21:00 local time). He'll then be ready to enjoy a hard-earned rest ahead of United's 2011/12 campaign.
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