But they got some help from El Tri, which blew numerous chances, including what should have been a couple of gimmes for Hernandez.

WSJ: U.S., Mexico Tie 0-0 in World Cup Qualifier

And El Tri probably should have been awarded one in the 76th when Maurice Edu took down Aquino from behind with a sliding tackle.

WSJ: U.S., Mexico Tie 0-0 in World Cup Qualifier

Mexico had plenty of chances with a whopping 17-1 advantage in shots, but El Tri was plagued by poor finishing and dismal execution on set pieces.

WSJ: U.S., Mexico Tie 0-0 in World Cup Qualifier

Mexico coach Manuel de la Torre is sure to come under fire after a third straight draw, which dropped El Tri (0-0-3) to second-to-last place in the standings.

WSJ: U.S., Mexico Tie 0-0 in World Cup Qualifier

El Tri were intent on avenging their defeat against Argentina in 2006 but have now bowed out of the last five World Cups at the round of 16 stage.

BBC: Argentina 3-1 Mexico

Two second-half goals gave Mexico their first ever victory over France to leave El Tri well-placed to make the last 16 and the 2006 runners-up on the verge of elimination.

BBC: France 0-2 Mexico

Fans of El Tri, as the Mexican team is known, booed as the referee blew the final whistle, displeased with their team's performance and that two times Mexico's appeal for a penalty call in the box went unrewarded.

CNN: U.S., Mexico tie in critical World Cup qualifier

South Africa did their utmost against a dispirited French side to seal a place in the last 16, but it was not to be as they finished level on four points with Mexico but three goals worse off than El Tri.

BBC: World Cup 2010: South Africa proud of team - Parreira