They outperformed their European rivals in terms of flair and attacking desire, and they owe it to goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa that they were able to stay in the game. The Mexicans will be unhappy not to have won their opening game, despite Ochoa's outstanding penalty save. The first 45 minutes were remarkable for the lack of open play shots that either goalkeeper had to stop, with Wojciech Szczesny being slightly busier than the other due to the number of corners that Mexico won.

At the opposite end, Ochoa finished unhindered, a reflection of the Polish team's lack of motivation during the first half. Robert Lewandowski, Poland's front-line danger player, received no assistance whatsoever during the buildup play, which caused the No. 9 to remain anonymous for the entirety of the first half.