After nearly two years, Santiago Giménez has finally scored his goal for the national team. That is no small feat, considering everything he’s been through.
After squandering countless opportunities in recent matches, ‘Chaquito’ has returned to the goal-scoring form that made him one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers. He scored Mexico’s first goal in a 4-2 loss to an impressive Switzerland side to end his drought.
He had missed a clear chance in the first half, failing to convert a near-open goal. However Giménez did not miss his second opportunity to break a poor run of form with the Tricolor.
In the 52nd minute César Huerta burst into the box and caused a panic in the Switzerland backline. A desperate defender managed to deflect the ball into the direction of Raúl Jiménez, who then flicked the ball up for Giménez to nod home.
The two Mexican strikers celebrated the goal with real passion, making clear how important it was for the struggling AC Milan man.
In recent years Giménez had starred with Feyenoord, leading them to an Eredivisie title and KNVB Cup triumphed during his time at the club. But earlier this year he made a big-money move to Italian giants AC Milan and he has not always convinced with his new team.
The 24-year-old managed six goals in 19 outings for Milan this year as the Rossoneri stumbled to an eighth-placed finish in Serie A. Giménez will hope that Saturday’s goal against the Swiss can kick-start a return to form.