Mexico beats US 2-1 in qualifier

MEXICO CITY(AP) —Miguel Sabah scored in the 82nd minute, lifting Mexico to a 2-1 victory over the United States in a World Cup qualifier Wednesday.

The win strengthened Mexico’s chances of reaching next year’s World Cup in South Africa. The Mexicans entered the game fourth in CONCACAF qualifying, with only the top three teams automatically advancing. Mexico now has nine points.

Sabah, a substitute, was all alone in front of the net when he beat goalkeeper Tim Howard, bringing Mexico’s home record against the Americans to 23-0-1. The United States entered the game second in qualifying behind Costa Rica with 10 points and took its first lead at Azteca on Charlie Davies’ goal in the 9th minute.

Israel Castro tied it 10 minutes later.