Mexico mount comeback and beat Honduras to reach Nations League Final Four

For one night at least, Javier Aguirre silenced the critics as Mexico completely dominated Honduras in the Estadio Nemesio Diez to overturn a 2-0 result and win 4-0 (4-2 on aggregate).

Needing to mount a comeback, Mexico started off the game on the front foot with captain Edson Alvarez hitting the crossbar on a long-range effort minutes into the match. The first 15 minutes was all Mexico with a goal looking inevitable.

However, Honduras managed to contain the Mexico onslaught and keep their two-goal advantage. But the visiting team was playing a dangerous game, ceding the initiative to Mexico and hoping to catch them on a break.

That script was torn apart in the 42nd minute as Fulham striker Raul Jimenez opened the score after connecting on a cross from center-back Jesús Orozco.

Still up a goal, Honduras didn't deviate from their game plan. Again, much like in the first half, they did well in keeping Mexico at bay though not without catching a few breaks with a Mexico side who was lacking that finishing touch.

Needing to score, Aguirre made a couple of substitutes including playing two strikers up top with the inclusion of Henry Martin. Those moves ended up paying off as the Club America striker equalized the aggregate score in the 72nd minute after being left unmarked on a corner. He was in the right place at the right time following a header from Jimenez inside the box.

That goal spurned Mexico off in the final minutes, creating a handful of chances for a third, trying to finish the game off in regulation rather than in extra time.

Another one of Aguirre's substitutes, Jorge Sanchez, got the winner in the 85th minute after bringing down a cross inside the box. The Honduras defense was erratic at this point and all gave Sanchez enough time to control the ball and set himself before thundering his shot past the keeper.

While Honduras only needed one goal to pull out the win, they never seemed likely to score after Mexico's third. To add some insurance Mexico were awarded a penalty in the 97th minute with Martin tucking it away for his brace/

It was the final nail in Honduras' coffin and a bow on the proceedings for Mexico who put in the type of performance many of their supporters have wanted to see. Honduras offered little resistance but Mexico did what they needed to do with the opportunity presented.

Aguirre came under his share of criticism after the 2-0 loss in Honduras. Him and his team responded well in the second leg and avoided what could have been a demoralizing elimination from the tournament.

With the win Mexico qualify for the Nations League Final Four alongside the USMNT, Canada and Panama. Mexico will face Canada on March 20 with the winner facing either the United States or Panama in the final.