Mexico thump Serbia 5-1 to complete World Cup preparations

Mexico capped off their World Cup preparations with a resounding 5-1 victory over Serbia on Thursday. The win provides a significant morale boost just a week before they open the tournament on home soil.

Serbia initially took the lead in the 19th minute through Petar Stanic, who capitalized on a defensive error and a fortunate deflection. However, Mexico quickly responded. Johan Vasquez equalized in the 34th minute with a header from a Brian Gutierrez delivery. Mexico then surged ahead just before halftime thanks to an own goal from Stefan Bukinac, who misdirected a back pass into his own net.

The second half saw Mexico extend their dominance. Raul Jimenez scored from close range in the 62nd minute after his rebound found the net. An own goal by Adem Avdic in the 72nd minute further widened the margin, and Luis Chavez sealed the rout with a spectacular long-range strike in the final minutes.

The fireworks at the Nemesio Diez stadium mirrored the celebratory mood as Mexico concluded their World Cup build-up in style. They are set to play their opening match against South Africa next Thursday, kicking off the tournament they are co-hosting with the United States and Canada.