Borgetti keeps Mexican hopes alive

The Mexicans engulf goal scoer Jared Borgetti

Mexico 1-0 United States

Jared Borgetti's winner gave Mexico a crucial victory to keep their hopes of reaching next year's World Cup finals alive.

The striker's 15th minute header from Alberto Garcia Aspe's free-kick gave his side the three points against the United States in Mexico City.

The victory was as huge relief for the Mexicans, who had three players making their international debuts in the match.

"This (victory) was a lifeline, an emergency that we had to survive," said new Mexico manager Javier Aguirre, who took over from Enrique Meza who resigned on 20 June.

Paulo Wanchope scored Costa Rica's first

The Mexicans are in fifth place, but with four games still to play, the task of qualification is still a tough one.

The defeat leaves the US level with Costa Rica, who beat Honduras 3-2 in a pulsating match in Tegucigalpa, at the top of the six-nation Concacaf group.

Mauricio Solis sealed the victory for the Costa Ricans in the 83rd minute.

Manchester City striker Paulo Wanchope headed the visitors in front after nine minutes, with Rolando Fonseca adding a second four minutes later.

But two goals from Amado Guevara, including one from the penalty spot, put Honduras level at the half-time interval.

However, Costa Rica snatched the points when Wanchope fed Solis who scored with a low shot from the edge of the penalty area.

Honduras, who beat Mexico 3-1 10 days ago, remain in third place in the Concacaf table.