US Team Triumphs Over Mexico

Ontario, Calif. - In a captivating international exhibition game, the US Team emerged victorious with a 6-5 win against arch-rivals Mexico. The US side was highlighted by an outstanding performance by 2022-23 MASL MVP and Tacoma Stars forward Nick Perera, who contributed with two goals and assists.

The US squad featured 13 MASL players from six of the league's teams and was led by Empire Strykers' head coach Paul Wright. Mexico was fielded by several of the MASL 2022-23 Chihuahua Savage's top players including goalkeeper Ivan Munoz. 

The game, held at Toyota Arena in front of a large predominantly pro-Mexico crowd, saw the US come back from a two-goal deficit to secure an emotional victory. Despite a fiercely contested opening quarter that had some intense moments, the game ultimately lived up to its high expectations.

Jorge Miller-Madero opened the scoring for Mexico in the second quarter, but the US quickly responded with a goal from Perera. Mexico briefly took the lead again, but a brilliant moment once again from Perera led to an equalizer by Zach Reget. The halftime score was 2-2, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.

Mexico went ahead again, but the US team showed resilience, with Franck Tayou and Perera making significant contributions to tie the game at 4-4 by the end of the third quarter. In the final quarter, the US took the lead with a goal from Michael Ramos, but Mexico equalized once more through Edgar Gonzalez.

The game's climax came in the dying moments when Sebastian Mendez scored a sensational game-winning goal, sealing the victory for the US. Both sides had their chances, including a crucial save by US goalkeeper Chris Toth, but the home country emerged triumphant.

This thrilling rivalry game between the U.S. and Mexico has undoubtedly left fans eagerly anticipating the start of the 2023-24 season of the MASL. A full schedule will be announced later this month.