Budweiser Man of the Match: Jose FONSECA (MEX)

21 June 2006

Mexico striker Jose Fonseca was named as the Budweiser Man of the Match after his country’s narrow 2-1 defeat against Group D winners Portugal.

Fonseca was recognised by FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG) after putting in an influential display at the sharp end of his country’s attack, particularly after Ricardo La Volpe’s team were reduced to ten men.

The Tricolor coach opted for the Cruz Azul hit-man over Guillermo Franco to partner Omar Bravo, hero of Mexico’s win over Iran, up front. Fonseca’s tireless performance ensured that the coach’s faith was not misplaced. “Throughout the game, he was the hardest-working Mexican forward, always looking for a goal and trying to create chances for his team-mates,” said TSG member Gyorgy Mezey of Hungary.

“He was a crucial player in how the game unfolded. He stood out for his individual play, but also for how much he worked for his team. He also scored a good goal, and almost squared the match for his team, after Mexico went down to ten men.”