Mexican media hail grieving goalkeeper

MEXICO CITY, June 12 (Reuters) A grieving goalkeeper still reeling from his father's death was hailed today by Mexican newspapers who also heaped praise on the country's team for beating Iran 3-1 in the opening World Cup Group D game.

Aside the Iran goal for which he was partly at fault, Oswaldo Sanchez's performance was exceptional, including a full length save from a goal-bound header just over 24 hours after returning from his father's funeral in Guadalajara.

Sanchez burst into tears with emotion at the end of the match and he was hugged by several players, not least two-goal scorer Omar Bravo and captain Rafael Marquez, who won the Champions League with Barcelona last month.

''Sing, don't cry'' was the headline in Reforma newspaper alongside a picture of tear-filled Sanchez. The phrase is a famous line in a traditional Mexican ballad.

''Now we can start dreaming,'' read El Universal daily. ''Enjoy it'' beamed the sports daily Record and ''Bring on Angola'' was the front page headline in the Excelsior newspaper, referring to Mexico's next opponents.

SUPERSTITIOUS STREAK Mexican striker Cuauhtemoc Blanco, left out of the squad by coach Ricardo La Volpe, took a swipe at the Argentine in his column today.

The coach is known for his superstitious streak and for wearing ties with dragon motifs. His tie yesterday was no different.

''Mexico's victory against Iran was not the product of superstition or dragons, but the fighting spirit and big heart of the players,'' said Blanco, who is enraged at being left behind in Mexico.

Most newspapers acclaimed La Volpe for changes he made in the second half. He brought on Sinha, who supplied the pass for Bravo's second goal and then netted Mexico's third.

''La Volpe was spot on,'' said another headline in Record, referring to the tactical changes.

REUTERS YA ND2204