El Cubo
Mexico's Erick Torres celebrates his goal against Panama during their friendly soccer match at the La Corregidora stadium in Queretaro October 12, 2014. REUTERS

QUERETARO, MEXICO -- For 89 minutes Mexico looked lackluster, lethargic and downright awful in their international matchup with CONCACAAF rival, Panama. Just as it appeared El Tri would get a disappointing draw in front of their home crowd, a late substitute saved the day. Erick "El Cubo" Torres, who plays for MLS club, Chivas USA, scored the game winning goal in the 89th minute to give Mexico the victory and another shut out.

The young 21-year-old future star for Mexico, was making just his second ever appearance for El Tri after beinc called up to the national team by manager Miguel Herrera, just over a month ago. El Cubo came on in the second half for Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez, who looked listless on the pitch for Mexico for most of the match. Torres was in the right place at the right time after a shot on goal by defenseman, Miguel Herrera (not the coach). Panama's goalkeeper, Oscar McFarlane, made a great save, but the rebound went to Oribe Peralta who had his shot blocked by McFarlane as well, unfortuantely for Panama, the third time was a charm as the second rebound went right to Torres who buried it into the back of the net.

It was 'El Cubo's' first ever goal for the national team, and he celebrated with his famous "robot dance." Fans of MLS and Chivas USA, are familiar with Torres' celebration dance as he has done at after all 15 of his goals with the fading MLS franchise. Mexico is still undefeated since leaving Brazil, and have kept a clean sheet for all four matches they have played in. El Tri goalkeeper, Guillermo "Memo" Ochoa, who captained the team in their 2-0 victory over Honduras, did not play in the match, and was replaced by Alfredo Talavera who made two saves for the shutout.

Panama, known as the Los Canaleros, played well despite the loss. They were able to disrupt Mexico's rhythm, and stand back and wait for the game to come to them. They created only a few scoring opportunities, but their two early chances almost found the net. Panama definitely had its chances, but thanks to Torres, Mexico prevailed in the final minute. Sunday's match will forever be known as the moment 'El Cubo' bolted to the forefront of the national team, as his time has finally arrived.

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