Mexico got its 2017 Gold Cup campaign off to a bright start Sunday, defeating El Salvador 3-1 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego.
Hedgardo Marin opened the scoring for Mexico in the eighth minute with a thumping header, only to see El Salvador equalize just two minutes later on a well-placed strike by Nelson Bonilla. Elias Hernandez put Mexico ahead again in the 29th minute on a volley, and Orbelin Pineda provided the insurance goal early in the second half.
Hernandez was easily the most impactful player on the field, dangerous throughout the contest and finishing with a goal and two assists.