Javier Hernandez breaks Mexico goal record as former Manchester United striker scores in defeat by Croatia

'Chicharito' came off the substitutes' bench to score a consolation goal as Mexico continued preparations for the Confederations Cup

Javier Hernandez celebrates scoring his record 47th goal for Mexico in the 2-1 defeat by Croatia (AP)

Former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez passed Jared Borgetti as Mexico's all-time leading scorer on Saturday when his goal in their 2-1 defeat to Croatia took his tally to 47.

The 28-year-old Bayer Leverkusen striker rose to head home a free kick at the far post with four minutes left in the match. Duje Cop and Fran Tudor had put Croatia 2-0 by half time.

Hernandez, better known as 'Chicharito', got the goal after coming on as a substitute in the 66th minute of the friendly match played at Los Angeles' Memorial Coliseum.

"I think Javier is one of the best finishers in the world," Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio said after the game, a warm-up for next month's Confederations Cup in Russia.

Hernandez has been linked with a move to the United States with MLS expansion side Los Angeles FC, although his wage demands are believed to be out of reach for the new side to meet.

PA and Reuters