Sports

Cavani leads Uruguay to friendly win over Mexico

AP

Edinson Cavani showed prospective employers that he still has plenty to offer as he hit a brace in Uruguay's victory over Mexico in Phoenix on Thursday.

The 35-year-old striker, who will be a free agent when his contract at Manchester United runs out this month, scored twice early in the second half.

It was a relatively even affair until Uruguay made the breakthrough 10 minutes before the interval.

Federico Valverde's corner was met by Cavani and his header was saved by Alfredo Talavera, but Matiás Vecino was quickest to react and forced the ball home.

The second half had barely begun before La Celeste had doubled their lead.

Facundo Pellistri, who has spent the last 18 months on loan at Spanish side Alavés from Manchester United, burst down the right flank before picking out Cavani in the middle of the penalty area to apply the necessary finish.

And the veteran hit the net for a second time just eight minutes later. The problems came down Mexico's left side again, with Damián Suárez laying the ball into Cavani's path to allow him drill a low shot from 25 yards.

Both sides will be in action again on Sunday, with Mexico heading to Chicago to face Ecuador and Uruguay taking on the USA in Kansas City.