Gio Reyna draws Diego Maradona comparison after making stunning run against Mexico

USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter said that he saw shades of Diego Maradona while watching Gio Reyna make a dazzling run past six Mexico defenders on Thursday.

Gio Reyna and the United States men’s national team were in World Cup qualifying action on Thursday evening as they went up against Mexico. The two sides played out a hard fought goalless draw to stay level on points in the CONCACAF Hexagonal standings.

Gio Reyna sparked life into the game after coming off the bench. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder was the USMNT’s best player in attack and produced an iconic moment that will make highlight reels for years to come.

Reyna made a mesmerising run that began from the edge of the USMNT box. The 19 year old dribbled and darted his way past several Mexico defenders with the ball at his feet. He continued his exquisite run till he reached the edge of the Mexico box, before eventually being dispossessed after running into traffic.

The sequence reminded USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter of Diego Maradona’s famous solo goal against England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup. Maradona’s goal is considered by many as one of the greatest World Cup goals of all time.

"“Mexico was the host of the 1986 World Cup, where Maradona scored his wonderful goal and I had visions of that while Gio was dribbling,” Berhalter said after the game.“Unfortunately, he didn’t get an opportunity to finish it off but again, I think he made a solid impact and he showed what type of playmaking and attacking quality he has.”"

Raphael Guerreiro was also in action on Thursday, as he helped Portugal beat Turkey 3-1 and qualify for the World Cup play-off finals. Goals from Otavio, Diogo Jota and Matheus Nunes sealed the win for the Euro 2016 winners.

Portugal will now go up against North Macedonia on Tuesday with a place in this year’s FIFA World Cup on the line.