World Cup 2018: Mexico hangs on to stun defending champion Germany

Jesse Yomtov | USA TODAY

Show Caption Hide Caption Why you should root for Mexico in the 2018 World Cup No U.S. team to root for this summer? Don't worry, we've got you covered on how to become a bandwagon fan of this country.

Mexico won its World Cup opener, hanging on to defeat defending champion Germany 1-0 in Moscow. Hirving Lozano scored in the 35th minute for the game's only goal.

Germany dominated possession (61 percent) throughout the match, but Mexico consistently threatened on the counter-attack. Mexico failed to convert a number of chances, unable to play the final ball and increase their lead.

Mexico sat back and absorbed pressure in the second half, defending well as a unit and preventing Germany from getting many clear chances on goal. Germany managed 25 shots, with nine on target.

The Germans had dominated in their previous four World Cup openers, outscoring opponents 20-2 dating back to the 2002 tournament.

Defender Rafael Marquez came on a substitute for Mexico, becoming just the third player to appear in five World Cups. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa was the hero again, four years after a tremendous performance in Brazil.

Mexico's win shakes up Group F with Sweden and South Korea set to face off Monday. One of the favorites to win the World Cup, it's going to be an uphill battle for Germany. Spain in 2010 is the only team to ever lose its opener and go on to win the tournament.