Читать книгу Chicharito - The Biography of Javier Hernandez - Frank Worrall - Страница 9

He always maintained he had two major aims in his footballing career – to play for Manchester United in the Premier League and Champions League at club level and to play in the World Cup with Mexico. Remarkably, Chicharito would achieve both dreams in one year…in 2010…when he starred for the Red Devils in both club competitions and also made a name for himself in the World Cup in South Africa.

The World Cup would come first – and football fans in his Mexican homeland were pinning their hopes on him – as organisers Fifa pointed out in their glowing pen picture of Javier before the tournament kicked off, ‘At 22, Javier Hernandez is his country’s golden boy. Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who both played for the Tricolor, the “Chicharito” (Little Pea) has become, in a very short time, a sensation on the Mexican football scene, scoring for fun and dazzling spectators with his ability in front of goal…

‘Before leaving his club to join Javier Aguirre’s pre-FIFA World Cup training camp for domestic-based players, Hernandez was the leading scorer in the 2010 Bicentenary tournament with ten goals in 11 matches. He had also registered four goals in his first four internationals. Hernandez is a complete forward – fast and intelligent, with remarkable shooting ability and impressive aerial power for a player only 1.75m tall. These qualities attracted the attention of Sir Alex Ferguson, who in April signed him for Premier League powerhouse Manchester United. Old Trafford will become the youngster’s new home once he has done as his grandfather, Tomas Balcazar, did before him in 1954, and played in the FIFA World Cup.’

The Mexicans qualified for the finals in South Africa by finishing runners-up (with 19 points) in the CONCACAF group of teams. The United States won the group with 20 points with the Hondurans making it to the finals by finishing third on 16. Out of 10 matches, the Mexicans had won six, drawn one and lost three.

Their qualification campaign had got off to the worst possible start on February 11, 2009, when they lost 2-0 to arch rivals America. It ended on October 14, 2009, when they drew 2-2 with Trinidad and Tobago. Their campaign only took on a proper impetus when Sven-Goran Eriksson was sacked as manager in April 2009.

The former England boss had been in charge for just under a year but his tenure came to an abrupt end when Mexico lost 3-1 to Honduras in that month – a defeat that left them facing the humiliation of not qualifying for the World Cup. They were fourth in the CONCACAF group with just three points and, of course, only the top three teams from the group would be guaranteed to go through to the finals.

The defeat by Honduras was their second loss in three matches in qualifying. The Mexican football federation convened an emergency meeting and decided to dismiss the Swede. Federation president Justino Compean told Press Association: ‘We said we had to take some measures because we could not take risks with qualification for the World Cup, and we could not rely solely on results at the Estadio Azteca.

‘This morning we had a meeting with Mr Eriksson and although it is a shame for me and a lot of people, we told Mr Eriksson that his spell with the national team was over.’ Eriksson was the first foreigner to coach Mexico for 11 years and had replaced former Mexican international star Hugo Sanchez. His replacement would be Atletico Madrid coach Javier Aguirre.

Eriksson had angered supporters by bringing four foreign-born players into the squad, but he said he had no regrets at taking the post. ‘I enjoyed the work, the country, everything. Sooner or later patience runs out,’ he said. ‘It’s a shame because I always thought I would be in the Mexico dugout for a World Cup as Mexico are going to qualify. We did not play well away from home and this is my responsibility.’

Eriksson’s overall record with Mexico, including friendlies, was six wins, one draw and six defeats. He had taken charge of the team when it was already involved in World Cup qualifying – despite warnings that he would be plunged in at the deep end when he needed time to learn about Mexican football and the difficult playing conditions in Central America and the Caribbean.

Ever the man with an eye for an angle, Eriksson was no sooner sacked than he was making moves for a return to England – preferably with a top-flight outfit! As his representative Athole Still said: ‘I would think there will be plenty of offers for him. He would love to work in England again, I know that for a fact. I would say his first choice would be a good Premier League club in England where he has a challenge.’

Mexico and her people couldn’t have cared less where he ended up: all they were now worried about was that he had failed, and that his failings had put their dreams of watching their team in South Africa in jeopardy.

Soon hope returned when a new favourite returned to take up the baton dropped by Eriksson. Just days after the Swede’s sacking, Javier Aguirre was indeed officially appointed as the new manager of the Mexico national team. He was officially presented in the role at a press conference on 16 April 2009. He said of his basic aim: ‘I want the player who comes [to play for me], [to] come with pride, to recover the identity that comes with our love for the shirt’ and he added that a call-up to his squad would be ‘a reward and not a punishment, that we’re all here because it is a prize for our careers’.

The Daily Telegraph would sum up the two sides to Aguirre – brilliant tactician but hardliner volatile temperament – just before the finals in South Africa, saying of his adventures with Mexico, ‘Javier Aguirre is Mexico’s most successful coach of recent times and came to the country’s rescue after Sven-Goran Eriksson was sacked after the start of the World Cup qualifiers…Aguirre was handed the job of reviving the national team’s faltering bid to qualify for Korea/Japan 2002.

‘…After doing just that, he then took the Mexicans to the top of a challenging group that contained Italy, Croatia and Ecuador, though their Asian adventure came to an end with a last-16 defeat to USA.

‘…But last July Aguirre was sent-off in a bizarre incident during the CONCACAF Gold Cup match versus Panama. Aguirre kicked Panamanian player Ricardo Phillips, triggering Phillips to push Aguirre, causing dismissals for both Aguirre and Phillips and delaying the match for more than 10 minutes due the refusal of the player to leave. Aguirre was suspended for three games and the Mexican Football Federation was fined £20,000 by CONCACAF. That over, he led Mexico to a 4-1 win over El Salvador to qualify for the finals.’

Mexico had been drawn in Group A alongside Uruguay, France and host nation South Africa – the latter whom they would face in the curtain raiser in Johannesburg on June 11. Coach Javier Aguirre named his 23-man squad for the tournament on May 5 – and Javier was relieved to be in it!

The squad lined up like this: Goalkeepers: Oscar Perez (Chiapas), Guillermo Ochoa (America), Luis Ernesto Michel (Guadalajara). Defenders: Rafael Marquez (Barcelona), Ricardo Osorio (Stuttgart), Francisco Rodriguez, Carlos Salcido (both PSV Eindhoven), Hector Moreno (AZ Alkmaar), Paul Aguilar (Pachuca), Efrain Juarez (Pumas UNAM), Jonny Magallon (Guadalajara), Jorge Torres Nilo (Atlas). Midfielders: Andres Guardado (Deportivo La Coruna), Gerardo Torrado (Cruz Azul), Israel Castro (Pumas UNAM), Giovani dos Santos (Galatasaray). Forwards: Pablo Barrera (Pumas UNAM), Adolfo Bautista, Alberto Medina (both Guadalajara), Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Veracruz), Carlos Vela (Arsenal), Javier Hernandez (Manchester United), Guillermo Franco (West Ham).

As we have already noted, Aguirre took over from Sven-Goran Eriksson when Mexico were struggling – and instilled a new confidence and determination within the ranks. The Daily Telegraph summed up his influence, pointing out, ‘Mexico made sure of their 14th appearance at the finals with a game to spare after a comprehensive 4-1 victory over El Salvador – despite a swarm of bees in the goalmouth halting play for 10 minutes. Aguirre’s side won six of their nine games to seize the initiative in the group after the job had been started under previous coach Sven-Goran Eriksson.

‘Having discarded Eriksson and employed the much tougher Aguirre as coach, the Mexicans rallied. With games at altitude in South Africa they could be very tricky opponents.’

But there could also be little argument that Javier and Co had been drawn in a tough old group – with France among the big pre tournament favourites and Uruguay well worth a punt as dark horses. Or, as Goal.com put it, ‘A tricky section…and one which will have the hosts crying into their vuvuzelas. By no means a dream draw for Bafana Bafana with some prized talent set to line up against them at every turn. France, facing South Africa as they did in 1998 and Uruguay as they did in 2002, could have done a lot worse though and with some menacing firepower will be expecting to reel off some hefty tallies, should they function as a unit. Mexico could only trail USA in the CONCACAF hexagon but boast pedigree at this level. El Tri have moved on from their last five consecutive World Cup group stages. The Uruguayan side showed a dramatic fluctuation in form throughout the South American qualifiers but on their day, possess a starting XI to rival some of the very best.’

Despite the difficulties they could face, Mexico skipper (and Barcelona defender) Rafa Marquez was commendably upbeat about his team’s prospects. He said: ‘This is a great team and Javier Aguirre is a great coach. We worked hard and got the job done, the credit goes to all to my teammates and to the coach. They are all amazing.’

Chicharito himself was also upbeat, saying he was looking forward to playing in the World Cup and, hopefully, leaving his mark. He said, ‘I’m very excited by the prospect of going to the World Cup with my country – it is a great honour. I’m not really thinking about being in the team, I’m just happy to be a part of it all. Being able to participate with the national team is a dream come true. I can’t wait to get out to South Africa for the matches.’

The 21-year-old was the third generation of his family to achieve the honour of travelling to a World Cup with Mexico. His father was a non-playing member of the 1986 squad that also featured 2010 squad boss Javier Aguirre. Chicharito’s grandfather, Tomas Balcazar, played at the 1954 World Cup.

Javier senior, then 48, told of his pride at his son’s inclusion in the 2010 squad, saying, ‘It is a beautiful situation that in the family we would have the happiness of three generations competing in the World Cup. This will stay in the history of Mexican football for ever. Playing in a World Cup is a beautiful experience, with everything that goes on around it. Being involved in it gives you maturity, knowledge of the level of international competition, so you return to your club with this huge football maturity and contribute everything you’ve learned to help your teammates both on and off the pitch. Words fail to describe the experience. You have to live it.’

Javier senior would show just what it meant to him just before the start of the tournament – when he quit his job with Chivas Guadalajara’s reserve side so that he could be with Javier in South Africa. ‘I asked for permission to go to the World Cup, and they didn’t allow me,’ he told ESPN. ‘I had to think about it for two days with my family and kids and I made the decision to quit because I want to go to the World Cup and see my kid play. Work is secondary. It was difficult, but in the end you are not eternal. Institutions remain for lives and one doesn’t. Moments from your life are what make you take that decision. I understand the institution and that no one is above it, but one is also just here in passing.’

Meanwhile, Mexico skipper Marquez had no doubt Chicharito would be one of the players of the tournament. He said, ‘I think he will leave his mark in this World Cup. I believe he’ll continue to perform like he’s shown so far: he is a very level-headed boy, clear ideas and with the talent and qualities that attracted Manchester United to sign him.’

With the level of interest in him, it might not have been that much of a surprise if Javier had struggled with the weight of expectation. Here he was, still not having played for Manchester United, with the hopes of a nation on his back. But he told the New York Times that he still relied on his family – his parents, sister and grandparents – to keep him grounded.

‘I want people to treat me like the same guy,” he said. “I want to enjoy the beautiful things – people recognising me in the street. But I don’t want things to change a lot.’

His agent Eduardo Hernandez said the transformation from small-time player to world superstar had been swift and remarkable, ‘A year ago, he didn’t really exist for anybody. Now, everybody wants him – sponsors, media, fans. He’s got a very busy agenda.’

But Nestor de la Torre, the director of Mexico’s national teams, made it clear that Javier had everything in his armoury to deal with the brave new world that now confronted him. ‘We’re talking about a player who is very down to earth, very simple,’ De la Torre said. ‘He’s always been a player with the qualities on and off the field to be a Mexican soccer star.’

Yet Javier had played no part in his country’s qualifying campaign. He did make his debut for Mexico before that final qualifying match against Trinidad and Tobago in October 2009. Yes, Chicharito had come on as a sub in the friendly match with Colombia a month earlier. He set up the consolation goal for his country as they crashed 2-1 against the Colombians. ‘For the next few months he was as excited by the prospect of the World Cup – and hopefully making the squad – as all the other players in the frame for South Africa,’ a Mexico source said. ‘It had always been one of his great ambitions to play in the World Cup. Mexicans football fans were reared on the legend and glamour of the competition and loved it when they hosted the competition. It had a very special place in their hearts – and in Chicharito’s heart. Especially so as his family had taken part in previous World Cups. He was determined to work hard and score enough goals that the national coach wouldn’t be able to overlook him for the tournament.’

Aguirre had certainly noticed him after he had come on a sub against the Colombians. He had noticed his speed, his ability to be in the right place at the right time and the striker’s instinct the boy possessed. He had noticed him so much that he now thought seriously about awarding him a place in his starting line-up. Yes, Aguirre could certainly use someone who could score goals.

On 24 February 2010, Javier showed he had what it takes when Aguirre gave him a chance to do just that against Bolivia. Hernandez scored twice and set up Braulio Luna for his goal in a 5-0 romp. The LA Times paid tribute to both players while outlining Aguirre’s blueprint of how his team would prepare for South Africa, ‘The first of Mexico’s 11 scheduled World Cup warm-ups was meant to give Aguirre a chance to observe players new to the national team. And Javier Hernandez and Braulio Luna, who are at opposite ends of their careers, took advantage of the opportunity. ‘Playing in only his second international game – and listed as an attacking midfielder, not a forward, on Aguirre’s two-striker lineup card – the 21-year-old Hernandez had two goals in the first 22 minutes as Mexico ran out to a 4-0 lead. Luna has played in two World Cups for Mexico but hasn’t appeared in a FIFA tournament since 2002, the last time Aguirre coached the national team. Now he finds himself fighting to win back his spot alongside players like Hernandez, Barrera and Aguilar, who were in junior high school when Luna last played in a World Cup game.’

Javier declared himself ‘very happy’ with his performance but refused to get carried away. As always, he was humble and respectful: he knew he would not do his cause any good by acting the ‘Big I am’ and it just wasn’t his natural way. It was left to his fellow striker Angel Reyna to explain just what it meant to be given your chance in these friendlies – and how important it was that you made good use of them.

‘These are friendly games but you have to win points to go to the World Cup and to win the confidence of the coaching staff,’ said Reyna. ‘All of us want to wear the jersey of the Mexican national team. So we have to fight for our place. We have to demonstrate in these games that we deserve a place.’

They were honest words and summed up just how hard it would be for Javier to make the final 23. But he did just that – taking the chances that were now presented to him by Aguirre. A month after the Bolivia match, he scored again, this time with a header in the 2-0 win over New Zealand. Two weeks later he grabbed his fourth international goal in the 2-1 victory over North Korea.

Then, on May 26, he scored again – this time heading home a consolation goal as Mexico went down 2-1 against a strong Holland side.

We were now in May 2010, and Aguirre had picked his final squad – and told Javier he had made the cut. The boy was ecstatic, phoning to let his father know the great news. He then went on to celebrate by scoring twice as Mexico crushed Gambia 5-1.

Finally, the waiting was over. Chicharito and his Mexican team mates arrived in South Africa for the greatest show on earth on June 4. They weren’t among the first or the last teams to set foot on South African soil for the big event. Australia had been the first, arriving on May 26 – a good eight days before the Mexicans – while would-be champions Spain were the last to touch down, on June 11, a good week after Mexico.

In fact, the Spanish would not arrive until the day Mexico kicked off the tournament! The Mexicans had the honour of playing in the opening game against their South African hosts – at Soccer City in Johannesburg. The stadium was jam-packed and not just with locals. Several thousand Mexicans had managed to gatecrash what was expected to have been a South African party and cheered their team on.

The hosts put out their strongest team – with star striker Katlego Mphela, scorer of six international goals in less than a month, leading the line. Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar was also selected in the hope that he could pull the strings in midfield as the hosts looked for a morale-boosting opening day win.

Mexico went with a blend of youth and experience in attack. Arsenal’s Carlos Vela and Tottenham’s Giovani dos Santos were chosen as foils for Guillermo Franco – which meant that Chicharito would start on the bench. ‘He wasn’t upset about the decision, not at all,’ a source reveals. ‘No, he isn’t the sort of guy who goes about the camp sulking – in his eyes, he had nothing to sulk about. He had only recently started to get a run in the team and he knew that the coach would go with his most experienced eleven to start with. Chicha was just happy to be there and glad to know he might have a chance to come on and do something from the subs’ bench.’

The teams lined up like this:

South Africa: Josephs, Letsholoyane, Thwala, Dikgacoi, Khumalo, Mokoena, Gaxa, Tshabalala, Pienaar, Modise, Mphela. Subs: Khune, Walters, Masilela, Ngcongca, Booth, Sangweni, Sibaya, Davids, Moriri, Khuboni, Parker, Nomvethe.

Mexico: Perez, Rodriguez, Salcido, Marquez, Osorio, Torrado, Franco, Vela, Aguilar, Juarez, dos Santos. Subs: Michel, Michel, Barrera, Castro, Blanco, Hernandez, Moreno, Guardado, Magallon, Torres, Bautista, Medina.

No World Cup host had failed to get out of the preliminary, round-robin stage of the tournament yet many critics were saying out loud that the Bafana Bafana (South Africa’s nickname) would be the first.

But that only served to increase the pressure on Chicharito and his team-mates. They were already under strain with the eyes of the world upon them in the first game of the competition – and now they were being told they should have no problems seeing off the hosts in the first match…in front of their wild, partisan fans!

ESPN summed up the feeling that the Mexicans should ease home in the opening match, saying, ‘Mexico come to the World Cup on a high as a young generation of players brings expectations to match the title of El Tri’s “Golden Generation.” But this year’s squad is not all youth — Mexico will also put some significant veteran leadership on the field.

‘Mexico should be among the best-prepared teams in the tournament. Coach Javier Aguirre has been working with a corps of Mexico-based players since mid-April. They will have played an astounding 12 warm-up matches this year, half of them against fellow World Cup participants, before the opener against South Africa on June 11.’

So there you had it – they were a new ‘golden generation’ and had enjoyed the perfect preparation under the wily Aguirre. And, just to add to the weight of expectation, ESPN also had this to say about Chicharito, ‘This time last year, few would have envisioned the recent Manchester United transfer making the national team, but he has burst onto the scene for club and country. Now, Hernandez will play a key role in South Africa, but faces huge pressure to live up to growing expectations.’

It was pressure all around as the Mexicans finally took to the field against the hosts – certainly they were feeling the strain. They had everything to lose – it was a no-win situation. If they won, well so what, they were expected to – if they lost or drew, they had got off to a stinker against a team they should have beaten.

Well, looking at it that way, the Mexicans got off to a stinker – after drawing 1-1 in a match they should have walked given the number of clear-cut chances they failed to convert. And they had to rely on a late equaliser from skipper Marquez after Siphiwe Tshabalala had put the hosts ahead to claim even one point.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre said, ‘Both teams go away with a bitter-sweet taste and now we are forced to beat France in our next game. We weren’t capable of really putting away our chances. The team was confident, but we missed a few chances and things got complicated after they scored. The South African goalkeeper played really well and kept them in the game in the first-half. Their goal changed the match a lot. I wouldn’t say we got nervous but a little bit anxious. We tried to change our play and we managed to draw but it wasn’t enough. We have to praise our opponents.’

Chicharito had come on for Franco after 73 minutes and made a few confident runs and passes. But he did not really have enough time to make the impact he would have liked as his team-mates were chasing the game.

The Mexican fans were united in their belief that by benching Chicharito, Aguirre had lost his most potent attacking weapon. His belief in the slower but more experienced Franco also angered the very same supporters – they wanted speed of mind and body and, in their minds, Chicharito should have started against the hosts. One fan, calling himself ‘Roma’, stated the general case for Javier, ‘I certainly do not agree with Aguirre and hope he doesn’t stick with Franco for the next two games after South Africa. On the one hand, although Franco does have more experience and has the experience of playing internationally coming off a season with West Ham of England, he is actually coming off the worst season of his career.

‘West Ham have decided not to renew his contract due to his lack of positive results for the team. Sure, Franco scored the only goal against England in the recent friendly, but that wasn’t so much because of his skill but more or less because the ball rebounded off him after a block from the English goalkeeper – he just happened to be in the right place at the right time, in front of the goalkeeper.

‘Being in the right place and just standing there waiting to get the ball isn’t a display of so much skill. Furthermore, Franco isn’t a fast player anymore and is always a liability due to his tendency to get injured. His lack of speed is actually detrimental to El Tri because he cannot keep up with the fast paced attack of Mexico brought on by its future stars Carlos Vela and Giovani dos Santos.

‘Chicharito Hernandez, on the other hand, is entering the best moment of his career after leading the Mexican soccer league in scoring and most recently he was signed by Manchester United of England. He has scored numerous goals and has shown that he can already be the starter for Mexico. He scored a goal against the Netherlands, the only one for Mexico, and could have scored also against Italy if it wasn’t for a slip on the grass. Chicharito has the speed that compliments Dos Santos and Vela, whereas Franco is too slow to keep pace. Chicharito should be the starter.’

And another Mexican fan, Chivista, added, ‘Franco has the heart of a bull, he never stops. He just goes and goes. That’s’ what I like about him. But I still prefer Chicharito Hernandez over him. How many goals does Chicharito have already – 7 I think? In 10 games. Chicharito moves around a lot and that leaves other players with no markers. Like the goal against Italy, Chicharito ran and Zambrotta followed thus leaving Carlos Vela to make the goal. Chicharito is a great all-around player.’

The Sun’s Vikki Orvice was sure that Chicharito should start against France in the next group match – and that he would. She said, ‘Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez should start for Mexico against France today. Hernandez, touted as the country’s best hitman since Hugo Sanchez, came on in the 1-1 draw with South Africa last Friday. And Carlos Reinoso, veteran coach of Mexican club side America, said: “He’s different, scores and is quick. Speed is very important at this level and Hernandez can be lethal”.’

Indeed he could, but the man who mattered most in the debate was coach Aguirre, who would ultimately decide whether to promote Javier from the bench…or stick with Franco for the next match, a real crunch encounter against the French. It was also a historic encounter – for two reasons. If Mexico won, it would be the first time they had ever beaten the French – and the match also held high expectations for Chicharito.

For if he scored against them, he would become the second member of his family to do so in a World Cup! In the 1954 World Cup held in Switzerland Javier’s grandfather, Tomas Balcazar, hit the goal that gave Mexico hope against the French. But the French went on to win the game, with a final score of 3-2. Vincent (19 mins), Cardenas (own goal 49) and Kopa (88, penalty) scored for France – with Lamadrid (54) and Balcazar (85) hitting back for Mexico. Chicharito’s granddad had equalised to make it 2-2 only for the French to win with a late penalty, three minutes after his goal.

As with the opener against the South Africans, there was real pressure on Mexico once again. Uruguay had beaten the hosts 3-0 to take a clear lead at the top of Group A – but there was also pressure on the French. Like Mexico, they had drawn their opener – in their case 0-0 against the Uruguayans – so a defeat by Mexico would almost certainly mean it would be they who would be going home. It was a must-win match for both sides – a draw would do, but it would place even more pressure on the Mexicans as their final match would be against the Uruguayans while the French would face the easier task, on paper at least, of dealing with South Africa.

Young Arsenal striker Carlos Vela said he and Chicharito were determined to score the goals that would send the French home on an early flight. Vela said, ‘Since before the first game, we thought we could win all three matches. Unfortunately we couldn’t win the first, and now we cannot make any excuses. We need to get the win, whether we were playing France or any other side.’

He denied that it might be easier as the French seemed to be struggling from low morale and alleged splits within their camp. He added, ‘It’s all relative, because you can say they are going through a bad moment, but when you get out onto the pitch it’s very different. You don’t remember what’s taken place in previous games. We know that they are great players and a great team, and at any moment that can wake up and have a great game. I think we need to think about our jobs and leave to one side what France are going to do, because we know we have a great team and we can win.’

Aguirre and his backroom staff approached the match with France with typical care and a minute attention to detail. The coach knew he now had to get his selection right for this match – get it wrong and it would be them, not the French, who would be on a plane home early in disgrace. Incredibly, Aguirre called it wrong at the start – but escaped the sack because of the efforts of the man he had left out of the team!

Yes, the coach decided to stake his reputation by starting once again with the slower, more cumbersome Franco to lead the attack while Chicharito watched from the subs’ bench.

Mexico lined up like this: 1 O. Perez, 5 R. Osorio, 15 H. Moreno, 2 M. Rodriguez, 3 C. Salcido, 16 E. Juarez, 4 R. Marquez, 6 G. Torrado, 17 G. Dos Santos, 11 C. Vela, 9 G. Franco. Subs: 13 F. Ochoa, 23 L. Michel, 22 A. Medina, 19 J. Magallon, 14 J. Hernandez, 18 A. Guardado, 8 I. Castro, 10 C. Blanco, 21 A. Bautista, 7 P. Barrera, 12 P. Aguilar, 20 J. Torres.

While the France line-up looked like this:

1 H. Lloris, 2 B. Sagna, 5 W. Gallas, 3 E. Abidal, 13 P. Evra, 14 J. Toulalan, 19 A. Diaby, 10 S. Govou, 7 F. Ribery, 15 F. Malouda, 21 N. Anelka. Subs: 17 S. Squillaci, 4 A. Reveillere, 6 M. Planus, 16 S. Mandanda, 12 T. Henry, 8 Y. Gourcuff, 11 A. Gignac, 18 A. Diarra, 22 G. Clichy, 9 D. Cisse, 23 C. Carrasso, 20 M. Valbuena.

On paper, the French had put out a top team, one that would be hard to beat as the teams kicked off at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Yet it would be Mexico who would emerge victorious and coach Aguirre with some egg on his face…after Chicharito came on as a sub, scored the goal that sent his team on their way – and even won the Man of the Match award!

All in a night’s work for Javier, who had only entered the fray on 55 minutes as a second-half sub for Efraín Juarez. Blanco put the match beyond the French with a late penalty goal after Eric Abidal had brought down Pablo Barrera. At 37, Blanco became the third-oldest scorer in World Cup history – behind Cameroon’s Roger Milla and Swede Gunnar Gren.

Chicharito’s goal was a fine demonstration of his ability to stay cool and deliver – it began when he set off on a run in the opposing half and left Abidal in his slipstream. He continued at speed and rounded keeper Hugo Lloris to score – much to the delight of the thousands of his homeland fans in the stadium, and to the relief of Aguirre.

The Sun’s Mark Irwin summed up the impact the Little Pea had had on the match and the history books with his star showing, ‘Manchester United new-boy Javier Hernandez took a leaf out of history to leave France needing a World Cup miracle. The Mexico striker, who is signing for United in a £10million deal, scored against the French just as his grandfather did at the 1954 World Cup. But unlike grandad Tomas Balcazar, who scored in a 1-1 draw in Switzerland, Hernandez’s strike ended in victory. The 22-year-old, nicknamed El Chicharito – the Little Pea – struck on 64 minutes, less than 10 minutes after coming on as a sub.’

The Daily Mail backed up those sentiments while also depicting the undiluted joy of Chicharito and his team-mates at their wonderful win, ‘New Manchester United signing Javier Hernandez inspired Mexico to a superb win over a poor France side last night, leaving the 2006 World Cup finalists on the brink of early elimination. Hernandez came off the bench to devastating effect, scoring the game’s all-important opener in the 64th minute. Another substitute, Cuauhtemoc Blanco, heaped more misery on the bedraggled French by converting a penalty at the grand old age of 37 years and 151 days. Mexico thoroughly deserved their win. The Central Americans missed a host of chances before Hernandez supplied the required composure, racing on to a perfectly timed pass from new skipper Rafael Marquez, jinking past Hugo Lloris and slotting into the empty net. The strike sparked an almighty outpouring of joy, as Mexico’s players and coaching staff mobbed the 22-year-old scorer. Hernandez, who will complete his move from Chivas to United when he receives a work permit in July, described it as a moment of “pure happiness”.’

Chicharito was indeed bubbling after the match. He said, ‘I am so proud to have scored this goal and when I was sitting in the dressing room after the game I was thinking about my grandfather’s achievement more than 50 years ago. I have not spoken to him or any other members of my family yet but I know they will all be very happy. I am very happy to be joining Manchester United and am looking forward to moving there soon. But right now I am thinking 100 per cent about Mexico and the World Cup, of beating Uruguay in our next game and going as far as we can in this competition.’

Coach Aguirre was also upbeat and paid tribute to his young striker, saying, ‘He is getting better and better and is pushing me hard for a place in the team. He scored a great goal and I believe he will have a great international career with Mexico if he continues to work hard. He is a nice, likeable boy and this win means we are nearer to making the next round – although we are not there yet by any means.

‘There is still a lot of hard work before we can be sure of confirming our place.’

JP, a United fan from Manchester, expressed the sentiments of many Reds supporters who had watched the match simply to see how good their new boy was. JP made the point that he looked very good indeed, ‘He looks a great signing for United. He seems really quick, skilful, good balance and has that all important positional sense. Having said that, you could say the same for the entire Mexican team. They were excellent. France were amazingly bad…Glad Ribery is going home (how is he worth £40m!) Felt sorry for Malouda, he had a good game… Evra to me look absolutely knackered after playing pretty much every game for United, the rest just didn’t want to play and Domenech was just playing the martyr. I also feel sorry for the French fans who have spent money on travelling and tickets. A disgrace.’

French coach Raymond Domenech admitted he was not at all confident that his team could now pull off a mighty upset and displace the Mexicans in the next round. His words had the feel of a resignation speech – and indeed in some ways they were. He said: ‘Qualification is no longer in our own hands but for the sake of French pride we must still play to our very best in our next match against South Africa. There is an infinitesimally small chance we can go through but we are greatly disappointed with our performance tonight. We really struggled and I don’t have any explanations for that right now. There’s one match left. We’ll play for pride and hope for a miracle.’

Maybe he was just being realistic in the hope that it would fan the flames of discontent that were now glowing back home in France. Certainly the win over the French had now put Chicharito and Co in prime spot to advance to the next round. They now topped Group A on four points with Uruguay while the French were languishing in bottom place, with a solitary point and no goals scored. In real terms, it meant a draw between Mexico and Uruguay would send the French home with their tails between their legs.

Mexico captain Marquez said: ‘We have to enjoy this win and now we have to go step-by-step and remain calm.’

France and Chelsea winger Florent Malouda insisted France would at least restore their pride in the final game against South Africa – even if they failed to qualify. He said: ‘We’re not going to go out of this tournament without winning a match. It’s shameful to lose like that. It’s a question of saving our honour.’

Well, they wouldn’t even do that – losing 2-1 to the hosts…a result that meant Mexico would have gone through to the next round even if they had lost to the Uruguayans, which they did!

But the build-up to the game was dominated by suggestions that Mexico and Uruguay would see out a draw so that both could qualify – in other words, they would fix the result. But as ITV Sport pointed out, it was hardly in their interests to do so, especially from Mexico’s point of view, ‘The first impediment to any ungentlemanly agreement is that Mexico won’t see any benefit in finishing second. The prize on offer for the Group A runners-up is a last 16 tie against Argentina. Nobody accepts a date with Messi, Higuain and Tevez when the possibility of meeting South Korea, Greece or Nigeria is an option.

‘For Uruguay, preserving top spot is paramount for that very reason. A match against their great rivals would be a mouth-watering prospect for the neutral but Oscar Tabarez would prefer safety to spectacle at this stage. Further motivation for Uruguay would be helping Diego Forlan add to his goal tally with the Golden Shoe still achievable for the man who has feasted on goals since leaving Manchester United in 2004.’

Uruguay defender Diego Godin was one of the first to brush away the stench of a fix – he made it quite clear that he and his team-mates wanted to ‘destroy’ Chicharito and Co. He laughed off suggestions that the teams would play out a tame draw which would see both progress. Godin said: ‘Mexico will be a difficult rival. They play good football but we have the weapons to destroy their game and we know how to cause them damage. We are calm and with less euphoria than in previous days. Our only thoughts are on Mexico and how to control possession, create goalscoring opportunities and finish them off. We have not conceded a goal so far and that is very important. If we do the same against Mexico, then we’ll have progressed to the next round and anything can happen then.’

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre was also quick to dispel the whispered claims that he would accept a ‘0-0 stitch-up’ with the Uruguayans. He said his team would play to win and do everything they could to clinch top spot in Group A, adding that all his preparations were for a victory. ‘If we go out on the pitch with doubts, then we may be inviting defeat,’ Aguirre told fifa.com. ‘We can’t doubt our ability and I’ve told my players that. We need those three points and will be going out there to win. They know they have to be fully focused because we still haven’t achieved anything, so we have no reason to feel happy. We’re going to try and win. Mathematically we still don’t have our ticket to the next round and we have to try and take those three points, so that we can achieve our aims for the first round. The law of the Mexican side is to win.’

Of course, Aguirre was part of the Mexico side that reached the quarter finals in 1986 and he expressed his belief that this was the nation’s best chance to repeat that feat for the first time since then, ‘We have a wonderful generation of extraordinary Mexican players with a very robust mentality,’ he added. ‘We have six or seven illustrious veterans, who have been through the good times and the bad times, but they now feel this winning attitude.’

After all the talk ended, the teams took to the park at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg – but it didn’t go to plan for Aguirre and his team. In their final group match, Mexico lost 1-0 to the Uruguayans. The Daily Mail’s David Bentley paid tribute to the teams for not playing for the draw, ‘Rather than collude – as Germany and Austria infamously did in 1982 with a 1-0 Germany win suiting both teams – the Latin nations fought to win the group yesterday. Uruguay edged it despite Mexico having most of the possession. It did not matter anyway. With South Africa only beating France by one goal, both teams progressed. Uruguay will now play in the knockout stage for the first time since 1990, a feat they achieved without conceding. For Mexico, second place means a daunting Round of 16 fixture against Argentina. Uruguay’s Luis Suarez scored the winner just before half-time, heading in a beautifully weighted cross from Edinson Cavani.’

The Sun’s Andrew Dillon was also impressed by the Uruguayans, but not so much by the Mexicans, who he said ‘barely had a look in’. Dillon said the Uruguayans had ‘swept into the last 16 having topped Group A without conceding a goal and are growing in confidence and class. A 43rd-minute goal from Luis Suarez here in Rustenburg merely confirmed the result of a game in which they dominated Mexico and quietly sent a message to the rest of the field.’

Ex-Manchester United striker Forlan claimed the result showed the Uruguayans were at last emerging from the shadows of their illustrious South American neighbours Brazil and Argentina. He said: ‘We have very good players in our team. We know what we are capable of. Everyone talks about Argentina and Brazil the whole time. It’s tough but we don’t let it frustrate us. And anyway when it comes down to just one game it is always more equal. The team is more and more confident. We have played well and come through one of the toughest groups.’

Mexico’s defeat meant Uruguay were now confirmed as Group A winners. That left the Mexicans in the runners-up spot – and a last 16 clash with Argentina. Aguirre immediately realised the significance of that – at the same stage four years earlier the Argentines had beat Mexico 2-1 in Germany to knock them out of that year’s World Cup. Aguirre noted, ‘This could be a nice opportunity to take revenge for what happened four years ago.’ said Aguirre.

The Mexican coach also now publicly laughed off further suggestions that his team and the Uruguayans had initially been playing for a draw. In the event, Mexico qualified along with the Uruguayans due to their superior goal difference over the hosts.

‘Uruguay played well and FIFA can rest assured that we indeed wanted to win,’ said Aguirre. ‘We were not striving for a draw, we played to win and we were faithful to our style. We had a lot of the ball but they are very good at locking up and waiting for you to make errors.’

Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez admitted he had also been perturbed by the claims that the two teams would collude for a draw. He said, ‘It’s an insult to the coaches and players. Both teams came out looking for something.’

Uruguay striker Diego Forlan added further that he was pleased that he and his team-mates would now avoid the dangerous Argentines in the second round. He said, ‘The important thing is that we qualified in first place. They controlled the ball well and, in truth, it was quite hard for us.’

And Mexico skipper Marquez agreed that his team had drawn the short straw by finishing second – and that they would certainly have to up their game if they were to stand any chance against Messi and Co. ‘It leaves a bitter taste,’ he said. ‘We’re all unhappy with this result and with today’s performance. We’ll have to improve now.’

They may not have won top spot in Group A – but the Mexicans had qualified for the second round and Chicharito had made his mark – and quickly at the World Cup. As the group stages came to a close, it was revealed that he was the fastest player in the tournament thus far – being clocked at a top speed of 32.15 kph (nearly 20mph).

That stat plus one about Lionel Messi suggested that Mexico’s next match – the round of 16 clash with Argentina – could be a cracker. It would pit the Little Pea’s speed against the little Argentine’s magical skill – as he had been feted by FIFA as having had the most shots on target in the group stage with 11.

Messi was also joint tops with Brazil’s Maicon in the solo runs department – each notching 18.

There was also the fact that Argentina hitman Gonzalo Higuain was joint top scorer with three goals (along with Spain’s David Villa, Slovakia’s Robert Vittek, and Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan) to add still more flavour and spice to the last 16 encounter.

The Argentines and the Mexicans were due to meet in Johannesburg on June 27. It was a clash that had got the Americas talking, one of the traditional power houses versus the new boys, the boys who had ambitions to become great and join the Argentines and the Brazilians at the top of the international football tree.

With youngsters like Chicharito and Vela the future was certainly looking brighter for Mexico than it had done for many years. But it was the present that mattered as the teams gathered for their showdown in Soccer City.

The build-up to the game was tense with both teams and their managers – the volatile Diego Maradona was at the helm for Argentina – keen to win the mind games. Surprisingly, it was one of Mexico’s more unsung heroes who spouted the most provocative words…talking of fighting to the death! Gerardo Torrado said, ‘We have an encounter ahead which we have to enjoy but we will play to the death to win it. Against Uruguay we lacked determination but each squad has circumstances that make them unique. There are different factors. This game is necessary to continue advancing and to follow our dream so we will not lack attitude.’

The Daily Telegraph saw the finer side of things with its preview promising a feast of flowing football, ‘A lovely-looking last 16 encounter with two of the great adverts for the rise of Latin American football here trying to pass each other into oblivion. Argentina, along with Holland the only team with a 100% record here, will start favourites, but Mexico, even coming off their poorest performance with the defeat by Uruguay, are determined to avenge their quarter-final loss to Los Albicelestes in Germany…After all the adventure of his group matches, could it be time for Maradona to look for more security in defence, with the more fragile Jonas Gutierrez perhaps giving way to the accomplished Nicolas Otamendi? Argentina, surging forward, simply cannot afford to be caught napping by the pace of Giovani dos Santos and/or Javier Hernandez.’

Maradona himself admitted that Dos Santos and Chicharito worried him but backed that up by saying he had plenty of players to worry the Mexicans in return. He wasn’t kidding either – with the likes of Messi, Carlos Tevez, Higuain and Sergio Aguero vying for two places in attack!

Finally, Aguirre had come to his senses and given Hernandez a run-out from the very start of the match – with Blanco and Vela on the subs’ bench. But on this occasion Chicharito was unable to prevent the inevitable – an Argentine victory – although it was achieved with some controversy.

The Mexicans had been in the ascendant when Tevez opened the scoring from a pass by Messi, although he was clearly yards offside. Further goals by Higuain and Tevez left Mexico 3-0 down after 52 minutes and facing a nightmare task.

To his credit, it was Chicharito who was on hand to offer some respectability to the score when he made it 3-1 on 71 minutes. The BBC described the goal like this: ‘They did pull one back when the previously profligate Hernandez turned beautifully to lose the flat-footed Martin Demichelis before burying a shot beyond Sergio Romero.’ While the Sun said, ‘Javier Hernandez finally gained the reward his persistence deserved when he turned Martin Demichelis to lash one home in the 71st minute.’

But it had not been enough and Javier and his team-mates crumpled to the ground disconsolately as the full-time whistle blew. Their World Cup adventure was over for now – but they were a young team and would hopefully be back in 2014 when the tournament would be staged in Brazil.

Soon after the defeat by Argentina, Javier Aguirre resigned as coach of Mexico – blaming it on their failure to reach the quarter-finals, which he had believed was a realistic target. ‘I have to leave, it’s the most honest thing to do,’ said Aguirre. ‘Everything I did, I did thinking of the well-being of Mexico. I’m the person responsible. I had a commitment to reach the fifth round. We didn’t qualify for the next round, and because of this one can consider it a failure.’

He said the likes of Chicharito, Giovani dos Santos and Carlos Vela would now take Mexico on to a new plane as they continued to develop. Aguirre added: ‘The future is in the hands of our young players.’

Mexico were out of the World Cup and Chicharito was said to be ‘really low’ as they made their way back to the hotel for a final dinner and get-together before heading off their separate ways. The tournament may have ended on a low for the Mexicans but even after it Javier continued to receive accolades for his own showings. Respected football website, Suite101, said he was now worthy of being included in the top ten strikers in the world, placing him at No 8 in the list and adding, One of the revelations of the 2010 World Cup, ‘Javier Hernandez has proven that he could be one of the best strikers in world soccer. Nicknamed “Chicharito” the lively forward scored 21 goals for Guadalajara in 2009-2010 before being signed by Manchester United. He then went on to score goals against France and Argentina at South Africa despite being mainly used as a sub. On top of that, Hernandez recorded the fastest speed at the competition, being clocked at 31 km/h.’

And Manchester United legend Paddy Crerand admitted he had been so impressed by Javier in South Africa that he reckoned he would be a real success when he began his United career. Crerand said on his own official website, ‘Some United fans have moaned about the lack of so-called big name signings but we should remember that the boss has already made a few changes here and there, Smalling the obvious new man in defence, but we shouldn’t forget and I personally look forward to when Javier Hernandez plays his first game with us in Mexico. He apparently joins the team in Houston but I suspect his first run out will be the Chivas game.

‘The 21 year old looked sharp in the World Cup and I have a good feeling about this lad. The former Chivas player known as “Chicharito” in his native Mexico is likely to play on the 30th of July at the opening of Estadio Chivas, the new home of Hernandez’s former team…I hope I’ll be raving about this young Mexican for years to come.’

The United fans were also delighted with what they had seen so far of the man who would be joining Rooney and Co after the World Cup. Fans’ website redforcerising.net opined, ‘United supporters who have been following the World Cup in South Africa will have been impressed with the goals Chicharito has scored against France and Argentina. In both situations, he displayed quickness of thought and movement, as well as composed finishing with either foot.

‘It is Chicharito’s acceleration and quick movement in the box that is starting to get me excited. One of Berbatov’s weaknesses as a goalscorer is that he is slow off the mark and is usually half a second too late on the end of gilt-edged chances. Berba has also shown on several occasions that he over-analyses situations and tends not to play instinctively around the goal mouth. Hopefully, Chicharito’s pace and decisive instincts will see United regain the English Premier League title.’

But some fans urged caution – particularly those from Mexico who had watched his progress in his homeland.

One fan, calling himself ‘Fragster’ said, ‘I hope United fans don’t expect too much from Chicharito but I’m hopeful this kid won’t disappoint. He has something about him; real belief and determination. He’s taken his goals well at the highest level and you can’t ask for more than that. If we don’t sign another striker, I won’t be disappointed at all. I’m really looking forward to seeing this lad in action.’

And another fan, Mauro added, ‘Time is a key factor here, Hernandez is very young, and has what we in Mexico call a “ballerina striker” body (look at David Villa for an example) – strong but light weighted. Among his strengths: confusing generator among rival defences, very fast, great instinct/technique balanced. On the down side and this is a South American striker issue, he’s prone to field drama, looking to impress referees. ‘From a Mexican perspective, it seems to me that Hernandez will need time to get used to the weather, field conditions and game pace. This will take about 4 weeks or so. In that period of time, put him in the gym, solid workouts to develop muscle, always keeping in mind his speed. After this, as eagles do to their chicks to make them fly…kick his ass out of the cliff, put him in danger, and he will deliver.’

But ‘Troy’ urged caution, ‘I think it could take more than a month to get used to a league or new environment. Even Fernando Torres was saying the English league might cut his career short. He adapted quickly to the English game, but was already playing in Spain. Imagine Chicharito having to come to terms with the physicality, the speed, the weather, the tactics, his team mates, the expectations etc etc.

‘Something about this kid tells me he’ll come good, but I’m willing to give him time. Yes he needs to be given first team minutes asap but am willing to be patient with him. I won’t expect too much too soon.’

The fan boards continued to go crazy in Mexico as it started to register with supporters that their star man of the Mexican national team was really about to move to Manchester…and United! There was joy but also fear that he would indeed be joining the biggest football club on the planet.

‘Mario’ said, ‘I thought he would move to a small team in Spain Like Guardado and Chupete did. The Premier League is very physical. Hopefully, Chicaro adapts well. His headers are very good and many English goals are off them. Wish him all the best.’

‘Coconut’ said, ‘I have mixed feelings about this. I’m very proud of Chicharito, but at the same time I would have preferred to see him in a smaller club where it might be easier to get playing time.’

Carla, a big supporter of Javier’s former club Chivas, said, ‘I’m very sad because I’m A VERY HUGE Chivas Fan and he’s originally from there and it breaks my heart to see him leave - even though I’m happy for him. It’s hard for us Guadalajara people to see him leave.’

While lalin added, ‘Chicharito was bound for stardom in Europe – that was not a surprise. But to be a part of Man U is beyond expectations. Given the EPL is a very tough league, where Borgetti couldn’t even make it in at a sub-level team that is Bolton, I just hope El Chicharito gives it his all and succeeds to the point where he becomes synonymous with Manchester United. Like how when you think of Wayne Rooney you think of Man U and when you think of Man U you think of Rooney. I’m happy for El Chicharito and happy for Mexico. It’s a chance to develop a top world class player.’

And Daniela said, ‘I can’t believe that he’s leaving Mexico. I know that it’s better for his career, but I guess I just got used to seeing him with Chivas Well, I wish him good luck because he’s an amazing player and he deserves the best because he is the best. But I hope to see him come back to Chivas one day because that’s my team and he’s my favourite.’

So there were tears and salutes for Chicharito from his native Mexicans – but there would be one more line of praise to come…and it couldn’t really have come from a more legendary source. Yes, even the great Brazilian Pelé had sat up and noticed Chicharito’s development – with the star saying, ‘There is no doubt that Hernandez is a promising player. He is excellent, I have seen some games of his on television and he is a fantastic footballer.’

High praise indeed from arguably the greatest footballer of all time…Chicharito had certainly made his presence felt and whetted United fans’ appetites with his contributions in South Africa. Now it was time to meet up with his new team-mates at the club and show them what he was made of too. It was pre-season in the summer of 2010 – and Chicharito was raring to go for the Red Devils…