Mexico Give All Whites Football Lesson!

World Cup quarterfinalists and regular finalists, Mexico, have given the All Whites a football lesson in front of a packed Westpac Stadium crowd.

Mexico's Oribe Peralta scored a first half hat-trick to put the matter of participation in the World Cup Finals next year beyond doubt as the Mexicans without their European stars, Javier Hernandez (Chicharito) and Giovanni dos Santos, gave the All Whites a masterclass in playing football with their quality passing and skill.

The difference in quality between the two sides was evident particularly with Jeremy Brockie's tame penalty effort at the end of the first half which was easily saved by Mexico's keeper.

Perhaps, inspired by that footballing lesson - and aided by the fact that Mexico could afford to coast in the second half being 8-1 up in the tie with 45 minutes to go, the All Whites played with much vigour and skill - the introduction of Rory Fallon gave the All Whites more physical presence up front.

They were rewarded for their brave efforts with a penalty kick converted by the impressive Chris James and then another goal to Rory Fallon as All Whites fans dreamed of an unlikely tie. Alas, the win to Mexico was put beyond doubt when they scored again to make the final score 4-2.

Given Mexico finished 4th in CONCACAF qualifying, it is quite staggering to wonder how good the USA, Costa Rica and Honduras are and in the end, it is good that a side as skillful as the Mexicans with their passionate fans is going to the biggest show in world football.

As for the All Whites, plenty can be learnt from this game and one hopes that Herbert's successor will try and play a more attacking game which the All Whites' young guns, Rojas, Barborouses, Fenton, James, McGlinchey etc. showed in the 2nd half.

Perhaps, a move to the Asian Football Confederation where teams play with similar skill if not as great as the Mexicans rather than remain in Oceania where the quality hasn't changed too much and the All Whites are really big fish in a small pond - but more on that later.

For now, congratulations to Mexico and pats on the back for the All Whites on a brave effort that ultimately wasn't enough for football's biggest stage.

And time to ponder who to follow at next year's Finals.