Zimpapers Logo

MIGUEL HERRERA, the embattled coach of the Mexican national team, has been fired for punching a TV reporter – just two days after leading his team to victory in the Gold Cup.

The Mexican federation president, Decio de Maria, confirmed at a press conference yesterday that Herrera’s contract had been terminated. Christian Martinoli of TV Azteca accused Herrera of punching him as the pair waited in the TSA line at Philadelphia airport on Monday, a day after Mexico’s 3-1 victory over Jamaica.

Martinoli, who has been critical of Herrera during Mexico’s Gold Cup run, told AS Mexico that he ran into the national team when he got past security at the airport. There, Herrera allegedly punched him in the neck, then challenged him to a fight outside.

Another source confirmed the events to AS Mexico, saying Herrera told Martinoli they should leave the terminal and head to the street to “fix this like it should be fixed.”

After the incident, Azteca urged “a prompt and urgent investigation” by the Mexican federation.

“We’re surprised and concerned by the behaviour of the national team coach,” the statement said. “The Mexican Soccer Federation should not allow attacks like the one suffered by our colleague.”

Despite winning the trophy, Herrera was widely criticised by spectators and pundits for his team’s lacklustre performances in the Gold Cup, the regional tournament for Concacaf nations. After a poor group stage, Mexico needed controversial late penalties against Costa Rica and Panama to advance to the final.

After two dubious penalty calls allowed Andres Guardado to score twice from the spot and help Mexico win their semi-final 2-1, Panama’s FA described the officiating as “insulting and embarrassing”, and accused the referee of favouring Mexico in a “vulgar and shameless way”. — Guardian