There was to be no upset in the match between Mexico and Jamaica, with “El Tri” taking the lead after 17 minutes in Pasadena through Javier “Chicharito” Hernández.
The diminutive striker rose unmarked to pinpoint a glancing header into the bottom corner of the net after Jesús Corona had crossed from the left.
Both sides had chances in an open and exciting game but Jamaica were let down by their finishing, particularly from Clayton Donaldson, who missed four clear-cut chances.
At the other end, Jamaican keeper Andre Blake was in fine form and did well to keep the score down.
Mexico were the better side, however, and Oribe Peralta, who came on for Hernández after 77 minutes, scored just three minutes later after a quick break.
The win was coach Juan Carlos Osorio’s 10th consecutive victory since taking over last year.
“We were convincing at all the right moments,” goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa told reporters after the game. “This team has personality and character.”
“It’s another step forward but we need to keep calm,” he added. “Now we face Venezuela, which will be difficult. But we will work hard and prepare to keep moving forward.”