Mexico opens World Cup prep with scoreless draw vs Wales

AP  |  Pasadena (California) 

started its preparations with a 0-0 draw against at the on Monday night.

Hennessey made several impressive saves, including sticking out his right foot to deny Hector Herrera's shot in the 56th minute from the edge of the 6-yard box.

Hennessey also tipped Herrera's shot from outside the penalty box over the crossbar in the 40th minute and parried away Javier Aquino's attempt in the 22nd minute.

dominated possession and kept the pressure on a Welsh side mostly lacking in experience at the international level. Their defense settled in well after some early jitters without Nestor Araujo, who left the team Wednesday following a setback in his recovery from a

With Mexico always a strong draw in Los Angeles, the international friendly attracted a crowd of 82,345, the largest to see a match in the this year.

Mexico's roster also featured three players from the city's two MLS clubs, with brothers Giovani and representing the Galaxy, and from expansion team FC, though Vela did not play.

came on in the 61st minute, and was a 69th-minute substitute.

They finished out the game without any apparent limitations from hamstring that have limited both brothers this season. Mexico set a Saturday deadline, which coincides with a friendly against in Mexico City, to prove their fitness and make the final roster.

was subbed out immediately after sustaining an when he collided with Mexico striker in the 17th minute.

The Everton defender was replaced by of Bristol Rovers. Wales did not have Real forward available because of final on Saturday. Bale scored twice in the 3-1 win over in Kiev, Ukraine, to help to its third consecutive title in the competition.

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First Published: Tue, May 29 2018. 09:40 IST