CHICAGO (AP) — The five Mexican players suspended after testing positive for a banned substance aren’t likely to return during the Gold Cup, but the federation still hopes to be allowed to call up replacements.
The defending Gold Cup champions were left with just 17 players after goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, defenders Francisco Rodriguez and Edgar Duenas, and midfielders Christian Bermudez and Antonio Naelson “Sinha” were removed from the team Thursday. The five tested positive for clenbuterol during a pre-tournament training camp.
Mexico has asked CONCACAF officials if it can replace the suspended players, and team director Hector Gonzalez Inarritu said Saturday night he hopes to have an answer before Sunday’s game against Costa Rica.
