February 19, 1999
By John Philip Wyllie
`98 Bonita Vista High School grad,
Linnea Quinones wasn't too concerned about what dress to wear
to dinner on Valentine's Day. She had more important things on
her mind. Like those of her teammates on Mexico's National Women's
Soccer Team, Quinones' eyes were focused on San Jose rather than
Cupid that evening. Not surprising since San Jose was the site
of the Women's World Cup Draw.
"I watched it on T.V. with some long time friends of the
family," Quinones said. Unfortunately, the results couldn't
have been any worse for Mexico. Placed into Group B with three
tough European teams, Mexico will be forced to battle in the "Group
of Death" this summer.
As a first time participant in the quadrennial event, the fledgling Mexican team knew that their chances of surviving into the second round were based largely on the hope of a favorable draw. What they got instead was the worst result possible.
Mexico will open the tournament on June 19 at New Jersey's Giant Stadium against highly regarded Brazil, then head to Portland June 24 to take on an even better German team and conclude their first round action in Foxboro Mass. on June 27 with Italy, the weakest of their scheduled opponents. While weaker than powerhouses Germany and Brazil, Italy is a formidable foe that is well established and strong.
"I was shocked with the results of the draw, but I knew going into it that we couldn't be matched with certain teams. We are still going to go out there with the same heart and determination, we will just have to work that much harder," Quinones said undeterred by the overwhelming odds. "Maybe we can squeak through as the second place team." It won't be easy.
In addition to weaker opponents, Mexico was hoping for at least one game in a location with a large Mexican-American population such as California. That didn't happen either.
The Portland game will at least work out well for Quinones who will be tending goal for Mexico. "I have family in Portland, so that will be great for me. I know they will want to come down for the game. My parents will probably find a way to get to all of the games one way or another," she added.
While it seems highly unlikely that Mexico will meet the top ranked United States team during the World Cup, the two teams will play a "friendly" at the Rose Bowl on March 28.
During their last meeting, the U.S. used its superior size, skills and speed to crush Mexico 9-0, but the Tricolores have bolstered their line up since then. Notre Dame's Monica Gerardo and Santa Clara's Lisa Nanez, two highly regarded collegiate players, have acquired Mexican citizenship and will join seven others in migrating South.
Although she realizes that she may be in for some long afternoons this summer defending Mexico's goal, Quinones has no regrets about her decision to play there. "I just love to play the game and I couldn't be more excited about competing against great teams like Brazil and Germany. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity."
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