New Zealand vs. Mexico: Date, Time, TV Info and Live Stream for Friendly
Oct 8, 2016
Mexico's Javier Aquino controls the ball during their Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup CONCACAF qualifiers football match against Honduras at the Azteca stadium, on September 6, 2016 in Mexico City. / AFP / YURI CORTEZ (Photo credit should read YURI CORTEZ/AFP/Getty Images)
Mexico will warm up for November's crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying games against the United States and Panama with a friendly against New Zealand on Saturday.
The two sides will face off at the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, as Mexico boss Juan Carlos Osorio looks to ease the pressure he's endured since El Tri's exit from the Copa America Centenario in the summer.
Mexico's Copa America campaign came to a humiliating end at the hands of eventual winners Chile, who thrashed them 7-0.
A 0-0 with draw with Honduras in September did little to regain supporters' confidence. While a friendly with New Zealand will hardly do that either, nothing less than a convincing win will do.
In selecting his squad, Osorio maintained his policy of rotation and left out a number of European-based stars, including Javier Hernandez, Hector Herrera and Carlos Vela.
ESPN FC's Cesar Hernandez welcomed the rotation:
People are going to criticize Mexico's roster, which is fine. Happy to see JCO trying out some different options before the Nov games.
Indeed, to overcome New Zealand, El Tri should still be able to cope, even without the in-form Hernandez.
In his stead, the goalscoring responsibilities could fall to Hirving Lozano or Giovani dos Santos.
The former has been in impressive form for Pachuca this season, netting 10 goals. ESPN FC's Tom Marshall noted the way he'd bounced back from an underwhelming stint at the 2016 Rio Olympics:
Hirving Lozano with a goal every 66 minutes on average for @Tuzos since his disappointing displays at the Olympics.
The trio will need to make up for Guardado's absence, which they should be able to do against New Zealand.
The All Whites have conceded just twice in their last 10 games, but they've not faced a team that comes close to Mexico's quality in that time.
Beating them—even convincingly—won't do a great deal to ease the pressure on Osorio, but it can help the team regain some vital confidence ahead of the more important fixtures in November.
Mexico vs. Honduras: Live Stream, Schedule for World Cup 2018 Qualifier
Sep 6, 2016
Mexico's Hector Moreno celebrates after scoring against El Salvador during their Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup Concacaf Qualifiers football match, at the Cuscatlan stadium in San Salvador, on September 2, 2016. / AFP / MARVIN RECINOS (Photo credit should read MARVIN RECINOS/AFP/Getty Images)
Mexico have confirmed their spot in the fifth and final round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but their opponents on Tuesday, Honduras, need at least a point from the Estadio Azteca clash to guarantee advancement to the Hexagonal.
Per FIFA World Cup, El Tri maintained their perfect record in the fourth round's Group A with a recent 3-1 victory over El Salvador, while Honduras put themselves in a strong position to advance in second place with a 2-1 win over Canada:
Mexico remain perfect at the summit of Group A while Honduras have a handy advantage over Canada. #WCQpic.twitter.com/jS8aljcZsc
Mexico's defeat of El Salvador was not entirely convincing—they were trailing 1-0 at half-time—and manager Juan Carlos Osorio's side will be eager to put on a good show against Honduras as they look to reaffirm their confidence following the summer's humiliating 7-0 defeat to Chile in the Copa America.
In Honduras, though, they face up to a side desperate to make the final round of qualifying, and it should be an intriguing contest.
While Honduras currently have a significant advantage in terms of points and goal difference over Canada in their bid to make the next round, they are far from guaranteed to progress.
Tuesday's trip to Mexico—their last clash of the fourth round—is the most difficult they will have faced, while Canada host struggling El Salvador and could secure second spot with a big win and a defeat for Honduras, per Canada Soccer:
Canada can advance to the Hex with a win over El Salvador, a Mexico win over Honduras and by closing the goal differential (currently 5).
Honduras' best course of action will surely to be to play for a point or, failing that, keep the margin of defeat down as much as possible.
Mexico are the superior outfit and won the reverse fixture 2-0 back in November 2015.
While Osorio's side may not be completely at full strength they will want to make it six wins out of six for the campaign.
Per Mexican football writer Tom Marshall, due to a number of injuries, there could also be one or two debutants on the field for El Tri, and they will be eager to prove themselves and earn a long-term spot in the side:
Chivas striker or Atlas' Martin Barragan, or both, set to debut for El Tri on Tuesday vs. Honduras.
The Mexicans' pride took a huge hit after their loss to Chile in June in the Copa America, and the only way to atone for that defeat is to keep on winning and make it to the World Cup in Russia in two years.
They face a tougher task against Honduras than they did versus El Salvador.
With one team looking to rebuild their reputation and another wanting to get one step closer to the World Cup, there will surely be tension and incident aplenty at the Azteca.
While a defeat for Mexico will be of little note given they have already advanced as group winners, they will be eager to put on a show for their home fans.
If they play to their potential it should be a perfect six wins from six for Mexico on Tuesday, but Honduras have more than enough motivation to claim at least a point that will see them through.
El Salvador vs. Mexico: Live Stream, Schedule for World Cup 2018 Qualifier
Sep 2, 2016
Mexico's Oribe Peralta, right, celebrates his goal with Hirving Lozano, center, and Hector Herrera during the second half of a Copa America Centenario Group C soccer match against Jamaica at the Rose Bowl, Thursday, June 9, 2016, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
El Salvador host Group A leaders Mexico in the race for CONCACAF World Cup qualification at the Monumental Estadio Cuscatlan, San Salvador, as El Tri attempt to maintain their perfect record on Friday.
The Mexicans have achieved a 12-point haul from their opening four games, as El Salvador languish at the bottom of the standings.
Mexico's early efforts have guaranteed a spot in the Hexagonal final round, as Honduras and Canada give chase for the second qualification berth.
Here is how you can watch the qualifier:
Date: Friday, Sept. 2
Time: 10.06 p.m. ET / 3.06 a.m. BST (Saturday morning)
It has been an outstanding period for Mexico in recent memory as the Central America nation attempts to qualify for the 2018 Russia World Cup—to add to their Gold Cup success.
Meanwhile, the Cuscatlecos lie bottom of the group after two draws in qualification, and a defeat to Mexico will end their ambitions of an unlikely place in the Hexagonal.
Two victories would see the Salvadorans progress with Mexico, but the form of the visitors is currently electric and irrepressible.
TORONTO, ON - JULY 14: Andres Flores #14 of El Salvador during the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group B match between Jamaica and El Salvador at BMO Field on July 14, 2015 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
El Salvador midfielder Andres Flores has said he understands the severity of the task at hand, per CONCACAF.com:
We have to try not to make any mistakes, try to be focused and do big things and do intelligent things. We need to win both games. That's huge for us.
[...]
Those two matches are the most important games of the year for us. We're going to face two really tough teams. We have to be prepared. We have to work to give our best.
Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio has lost two members of his squad to injury, and has drafted Elias Hernandez and Hugo Ayala after Jesus Corona and Nestor Araujo both withdrew, according to Jon Arnold of Goal. Araujo has sustained a knee problem and isn't fit to travel, and Corona is missing due to a collarbone issue.
The Mexicans remain weak in defence, and will be relying on flair to dismantle the hosts.
Carlos Vela, who was exceptional during the Gold Cup, has been omitted from the squad after the nation was eliminated from the Copa America.
Javier Hernandez is also absent with a hand injury, as the player confirmed on social media:
El Tri made short work of El Salvador in the first match of qualifying, cruising to a 3-0 win at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
Here are highlights from the match:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lf0WIuFpNe4
Despite home advantage, El Salvador do not have the depth of talent to stop a Mexico team brimming with confidence and menace.
Mexico are already guaranteed a spot in the Hex, and will purposely not burn too much oil during their task on Friday.
Going for Gold: Mexico Focus on Rio Olympics as They Aim for Repeat of 2012
Jun 24, 2016
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 11: Jorge Enriquez of Mexico celebrates winning the gold medal after the Men's Football Final between Brazil and Mexico on Day 15 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at Wembley Stadium on August 11, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
The 2012 London Olympics were full of sporting highlights. American swimmer Michael Phelps took his career medal tally to an astonishing 22, Jamaican Usain Bolt did the sprint double and Britain's Mo Farah thrilled the home crowd by winning both the 5,000 and 10,000 metres.
Mexico finished the Games with seven medals. Their solitary gold didn't come on the track or in the pool, but instead on the football field.
Oribe Peralta was the hero for coach Luis Fernando Tena's squad, the forward scoring twice at Wembley Stadium to secure a 2-1 win over a side that contained Neymar, Marcelo and Thiago Silva.
Mexico's forward Oribe Peralta celebrates after he scored his team's second goal in the men's football final match between Brazil and Mexico at Wembley stadium in London during the London Olympic Games on August 11, 2012. AFP PHOTO / LUIS ACOSTA
The Olympic champions didn't have the same level of star quality as their opponents, who were able to send on Hulk, Alexandre Pato and Lucas Moura from the bench.
What they did have, however, was a united XI all pulling in the same direction. The overage trio of goalkeeper Jose de Jesus Corona, who captained the side, Carlos Salcido and Peralta (it is essentially an under-23 event with three overaged players allowed) all played pivotal roles in helping their young compatriots to glory.
Now Mexico's squad of 2016 is preparing to defend their Olympic title in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Raul Gutierrez is the man in charge of the current crop. The signs were good when they breezed through the 2015 CONCACAF qualifying championship in the United States, going unbeaten in the competition.
Since then, however, things haven't gone quite so well. In 2016, Mexico's under-23 team have only won once in six matches. Despite the disappointing form, Gutierrez is confident things will come good for the Olympics.
He told Alejandro Lifschitz of Rio2016.com: "We are ready to defend our gold medal. We have the quality and we are working hard. I believe that the current generation of footballers has grown with their successes. We will continue with the same passion as before."
COMMERCE CITY, CO - OCTOBER 07: Head coach Raul Gutierrez of Mexico prepares to lead his team against Honduras during 2015 CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on October 7, 2015 in Commerce City, Colorado. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/
Mexico fans know that form means nothing when it comes to major tournaments. The full side were on a 22-match unbeaten run when they met Chile in the quarter-finals of the Copa America Centenario on June 18. They lost that match 7-0.
Gutierrez won't come under quite the same level of scrutiny as Juan Carlos Osorio, the senior team's head coach whose future was uncertain until the Mexican federation (FMF) confirmed on Thursday he will be carrying on in his role, per Tom Marshall of ESPN FC.
However, that doesn't mean the junior squad will travel to Brazil without a level of expectancy.
They have been drawn in Group C alongside Germany, Fiji and South Korea. But like the Copa—where Osorio's side had to pick their poison between facing Argentina or Chile in the last eight—the draw has not been kind to Mexico's Under-23 team.
Just like at the Copa, Argentina could lie in wait in the knockout stages. Portugal look the other likely likely qualifier from Group D.
But enough of the gloomy forecast, it is the summer Olympics after all.
Gutierrez has already picked a 25-man squad for a training camp. His final selection will be cut down to 18.
The key to their hopes of winning a medal could rest on the identity of the three seniors. Striker Hernandez will not be one of those drafted in, as Bayer Leverkusen only cleared him to feature in the Copa America between Bundesliga seasons.
Following Tena's example in 2012 by selecting an experienced goalkeeper would make some sense—Corona is still going strong at 35 and played only once during the Copa America.
Yet Peralta's goals were so pivotal in winning gold, and a strong forward would provide a focal point at the head of the field for Mexico's young stars to work around.
Hernandez would have been a wonderful option to have, but European clubs are understandably unwilling to allow their players to be away at a competition that runs until August 20.
Erick Torres did score three times in the unbeaten qualifying campaign. The 23-year-old, nicknamed "Cubo," has had a tough time of it in Major League Soccer with the Houston Dynamo. Per Benjamin Baer of MLS Soccer, the forward has made just seven appearances (two of them starts) this season.
Wingers Hirving Lozano and Juan "Tecatito" Corona both still qualify as underage players but were not named in the training squad due to their Copa commitments.
That tournament in the United States at least proved there is no quick path to the top for Mexico. Chile—a nation that has developed a group of players over a number of years—taught them a footballing lesson.
Now El Tri must put their faith in youth, hoping some of the country's rising stars can use the Olympics as a springboard to success with the full team.
Some have already had a taste of international football, including defenders Raul Lopez and Carlos Salcedo, plus midfielder Rodolfo Pizarro. Participating at the Games will only help their footballing education.
No matter who makes the final squad, Mexico's fans can be hopeful ahead of the Olympics.
A Brazil squad led by Neymar on home turf will be the favourites to get the gold medal that has so far eluded the famous footballing nation, but don't count out the reigning champions defending their title.
3 Issues Mexico Must Resolve Following Their Copa America Centenario Exit
Jun 23, 2016
SANTA CLARA, CA - JUNE 18: Hirving Lozano #8 of Mexico battles for control of the ball with Jean Beausejour #15 of Chile during the 2016 Copa America Centenario Quarterfinals match play between Mexico and Chile at Levi's Stadium on June 18, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
It may still be a little raw, but Mexico must quickly move on from their Copa America Centenario disappointment.
El Tri travelled to the United States with high hopes of winning the tournament for the first time. They returned home after receiving a footballing lesson from Chile in the quarter-finals.
The 2015 Copa champions thrashed Mexico 7-0 in California on Saturday. Seven to nil.
Such heavy defeats always lead to calls for change.
Coach Juan Carlos Osorio accepted responsibility in the aftermath. Per Reuters (h/t the Daily Mail), he said: "I got it all wrong, I erred in my choices for the squad, I assume that responsibility, none of our players were at their best."
Now, though, it is time to look forward, rather than back.
Here, Bleacher Report focuses on three issues Mexico must solve to help them improve.
Pick a goalkeeper, any goalkeeper
Mexican goalkeepers (L-R) Alfredo Talavera, Guillermo Ochoa and Jesus Corona train at Episcopal High School in Houston, Texas on June 11, 2016. Mexico will face Venezuela on June 13 in their third match of the Copa America. / AFP / ALFREDO ESTRELLA
Osorio constantly changing outfield players is one thing. We get it, Juan Carlos, you like to tinker.
However, the Colombian coach also played musical chairs with the goalkeeping position at the Copa America.
Alfredo Talavera was first up, yet he looked far from convincing in the 3-1 victory over Uruguay. Under pressure in the air, the Toluca player was uncertain and spread panic through his team-mates.
Guillermo Ochoa took over for the game against Jamaica and looked a more reliable option in a 2-0 win. Yet despite the clean sheet, he was left out for the group finale against Venezuela.
Jose de Jesus Corona started the third game. He conceded early and then had very little to do as El Tri fought back for a 1-1 draw that clinched top spot in the table.
When it came to the quarter-final against Chile, no one was quite sure who would get the nod. It ended up being Ochoa, who ended up being in the firing line.
While the Malaga 'keeper didn't cover himself in glory with the first and fifth goals La Roja scored in the rout, he wasn't helped by his team-mates folding faster than a bunch of origami experts.
Having struggled for playing time at his La Liga employers until the end of the Spanish season, Ochoa had not even been in Mexico's squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in February and March.
Osorio needs to pick one 'keeper and stick with him in the future, thereby giving the team a chance to settle with a consistent presence as the last line of defence.
Marquez: In or out?
Rafael Marquez (L) and Jorge Torres Nilo of Mexico practice during a training session at the Levi's stadium in Santa Clara, California on June 17, 2016.
Mexico will face Chile in a Copa America's quarterfinal football match on June 18th. / AFP / OMAR TOR
Despite a difficult season with Club Atlas, Rafael Marquez was still picked in Mexico's 23-man Copa America squad.
The 37-year-old showed just why Osorio recalled him to the international setup with his performances against Uruguay and Jamaica, including playing as the holding midfielder against the latter.
Yet for some reason, that was the last time Marquez appeared in the tournament.
Leaving him out against Venezuela—sparing him from playing for a third time in the space of eight days—made some sense. Ignoring him for the quarter-final was a real surprise, though.
However, David Faitelson of ESPN FC revealed Marquez had been absent for two days of training prior to the Chile fixture, allowing him to go home to Guadalajara for the birth of his son.
There is a Confederations Cup to come in 2017, but Marquez will be 39 by the time the next World Cup comes around. Could he stick around for another two years to play in Russia (provided El Tri qualify)?
More importantly, does Osorio feel the former Barcelona player is part of the squad's long-term plans?
As Tom Marshall pointed out for ESPN FC, Marquez is a major presence in Mexican football. It is a gamble to keep him around as nothing more than a peripheral figure:
There has long been a suggestion that Marquez holds much sway in Mexico's dressing room, perhaps partially explaining why Jose Manuel "Chepo" de la Torre stopped picking him. Osorio has attempted to get on Marquez's good side by stressing his experience and leadership qualities, but the former Barcelona player didn't start against Chile and wasn't even brought off the bench.
Marquez fits Osorio's profile. He can help build attacks from the back with his passing abilities while also providing a calming influence that was so sadly lacking against Chile.
Either way, the current coach—or whoever ends up being in charge, for that matter—needs to make a decision over the legendary figure, provided Marquez doesn't opt to retire.
Keep the faith
HOUSTON, TX - JUNE 13: Jesus Manuel Corona #10 of Mexico celebrates a second half goal with his teammates during the 2016 Copa America Centenario Group match between Mexico and Venezuela at NRG Stadium on June 13, 2016 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Scott
This isn't a change to do with tactics or personnel, but instead a change in mindset.
Despite recording nine wins and one solitary draw prior to the Chile game, Osorio's future has been questioned after such a humiliating defeat.
The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) are not known for their patience.
However, now is the time to keep the faith. If Osorio was the unanimous choice before the Copa campaign, then stand by your man. Do not let the score against Chile suddenly alter your opinion.
Jon Arnold of Goal.com believes changing the coach would be a short-term fix when long-term vision is required: "For Mexico to finally break through at a non-Gold Cup major tournament and get to a fifth match, it needs to stick with the one who has brought it here. In this case, Osorio has only just begun to implement his ideas. Any change at the top will set back Mexican soccer a year."
There is also a need to understand where Mexico sits in the world order.
Yes, they're 16th in the FIFA world rankings, but El Tri have not reached the quarter-finals at a World Cup since hosting the tournament in 1986. They have never won the Copa America.
The upcoming Olympics in Rio, Brazil, will offer Mexican fans a glimpse into the future, as they look to retain the title they won at the London Games in 2012.
But there is no need to rip up the current plan and start all over again.
While Javier Hernandez is in his prime years, Hirving Lozano (20) and Jesus "Tecatito" Corona (23) are talented forwards who are not even close to reaching their peak yet.
Corona has benefited from playing for FC Porto alongside compatriots Hector Herrera and Miguel Layun, two more pivotal building blocks for the future.
Lozano, meanwhile, seems destined to head to Europe sooner rather than later. Per Jack Gaughan of MailOnline, Manchester United have spoken to the player's club, Pachuca, over a potential move.
The more exposure Mexico's players get at a higher level, the better it will be for the national team.
What are the areas where you think El Tri must improve? Which of the current players should be building blocks for the future? Have your say via the comments section.
Should He Stay or Should He Go? Mexico Have to Decide over Juan Carlos Osorio
Jun 21, 2016
Juan Carlos Osorio the coach of Mexico arrives for a press conference at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on June 12, 2016.
Mexico will face Venezuela on June 13 in their third match of the Copa America. / AFP / ALFREDO ESTRELLA (Photo credit should read ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP/Getty Images)
Juan Carlos Osorio, a coach known for keeping his players guessing over team selection, now finds himself waiting to find out what the future holds for him with Mexico.
The Colombian finds himself on a suddenly hot seat after Saturday's embarrassing Copa America Centenario exit in Santa Clara, California.
Losing in the quarter-finals to Chile—the 2015 champions—was hardly an upset, but to go down 7-0 was a huge shock.
México lost 7-0 to Chile Saturday night. México had not allowed 7 goals in an official match since 1928 against Spain (lost 7-1)
The automatic reaction to such a heavy defeat is to look for a scapegoat.
The players are far from blameless, but turning on them is not going to necessarily result in a change for the better. The majority of them are going to be representing their country the next time El Tri are in action.
The coach, however, is much easier to replace. Finding better players takes years of development, making a change at the helm is a quick and easy process.
To his credit, Osorio accepted responsibility for the dreadful result.
Per Reuters (h/t the Daily Mail), he said in his post-match press conference: "What happened today was shameful, a football accident, it was a very poor performance and I offer my apologies to everyone and all the Mexico fans.
"I got it all wrong, I erred in my choices for the squad, I assume that responsibility, none of our players were at their best."
Now, Osorio, like Mexico's fans, is waiting to see what happens next.
If the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) feels someone should pay for what happened at Levi's Stadium, it's clear who would top their hit list.
As Ryan Rosenblatt of Fox Sports pointed out, the governing body are not afraid to make a change:
Keep in mind, this is a team that went through three managers in two months in 2013. They fire managers like it's their way to blow off steam, but only after dramatic deliberation, consternation and rumour mongering, and then they apply all of that to hiring their new manager. It's not all too surprising considering the federation is run by the Liga MX owners, who have their own club and business priorities that sometimes conflict with the national team's best interests.
What the federation should do is look at Osorio's work as a whole, rather than just the 90-minute horror show against Chile.
Before the game at the weekend, the 55-year-old had a 9-1 record in charge. Mexico had conceded two goals in that 10-game run, then contrived to leak five in one half at the Copa.
Those nine wins under Osorio were not always against strong opposition, but they did open their Copa campaign with a 3-1 triumph over Uruguay. There was also a 1-0 friendly win over Chile at the start of June.
Osorio's teams—however he sets them up—are set up to play an aggressive style of football.
He explained his philosophy in an interview with FIFA.com not long after taking the role: "In terms of my vision of the game, I identify myself with coaches who like to take the initiative in games, who have an attacking mindset and want to take the opposition on."
Mexican players (L) react in dejection after a Copa America Centenario quarterfinal football match against Chile in Santa Clara, California, United States, on June 18, 2016.
Chile defeated Mexico by 7-0 and qualified for semi-finals. / AFP / Beck Diefenb
Taking initiative is a great plan, but better opponents can turn that aggressiveness against you. Chile were ruthless, exploiting the space on offer to expose a Mexico defence that received little protection from their colleagues in front of them.
Yet the manner of their Copa exit could be used as a turning point for both Mexico and their current coach.
Osorio used 22 players from his 23-man squad during the tournament, including all three goalkeepers. He chopped and changed personnel in such a manner that you wondered if he was picking his XI by playing pin the name on the team sheet.
While experimenting is acceptable, even welcomed, in games against Canada, El Salvador and Senegal, it is not advisable at major tournaments. Pragmatism has its place in international football.
The players could easily have turned against him, considering the uncertainty over their places. Instead, they have spoken out in support of their boss.
According to Tom Marshall of ESPN FC, Javier Hernandez said after the defeat: "[We have to] support him as we have. Every group I've been with in the national team has supported [the coach] and we are with [Osorio], as always."
Rafael Marquez also backed Osorio: "We ask for the vote of confidence; he convinced of us many things and we give him our support."
The veteran defender's Copa campaign rather summed up Osorio's odd approach to selection. He started Mexico's opening two fixtures, and was particularly impressive against Uruguay, yet he was completely overlooked for the clash with Chile.
He could have stuck the boot in after being left out, but he offered a vote of confidence instead.
According to Marshall on Twitter, the FMF plan to let the dust completely settle before making any decisions:
FMF general secretary Memo Cantu saying nobody's job is guaranteed on return to Mexico City. Will analyse loss in next couple of days
Osorio—who once resigned from his role at Mexican club Puebla after just over four months in charge—has a record with El Tri that suggests he deserves a chance to continue in his role.
However, a 7-0 drubbing will make people quickly forget about what happened in the past.
Had they lost a close game to La Roja, would Osorio's position be questioned in the same way? Probably not. Yet if he is shown the door, he will have no one to blame but himself.
Chile Drubbing at Copa America Leaves Mexico with Much to Ponder
Jun 19, 2016
Chilean players (L) celebrate as Mexican players react in dejection after the Copa America Centenario quarterfinal football match in Santa Clara, California, United States, on June 18, 2016.
Chile defeated Mexico by 7-0 and qualified for semi-finals. / AFP / OMAR TORRES (Photo credit should read OMAR TORRES/AFP/Getty Images)
It wasn't supposed to end like that.
Mexico's hopes of a first Copa America triumph weren't just dashed by Chile in a one-sided quarter-final on Saturday. They were stamped on, put through a blender and then incinerated.
After 22 games without defeat, a run that stretched back 364 days, El Tri were routed 7-0 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
That's right. The pick of the ties in the last eight finished Chile 7, Mexico 0. Astonishingly, it could have been even more.
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 19, 2016
First and foremost, La Roja—the holders—were superb from start to finish.
Eduardo Vargas will rightly hog the headlines having scored four goals, but Chile's two superstars, Arturo Vidal—who will miss his team's next game through suspension—and Alexis Sanchez, were outstanding.
So too was defender Jean Beausejour. His runs down the left wing caused serious issues to a Mexico team that had hoped its full-backs would do something similar to the opposition.
But Chile's performance wasn't so much about individuals. As a team, they pressed the ball. And pressed. Then pressed a little more. They hunted as a pack and picked apart a below-par Mexico.
Chile's Eduardo Vargas celebrates after scoring against Mexico during the Copa America Centenario quarterfinal football match in Santa Clara, California, United States, on June 18, 2016. / AFP / OMAR TORRES (Photo credit should read OMAR TORRES/AF
Goals in the 16th minute and at end of the first half put Chile into a deserved 2-0 lead at the interval, but few could have predicted what would unfold in the second 45 minutes.
Within 15 minutes of the restart, Chile had scored three more times to put the game well out of sight. It sparked a mass exodus of Mexico fans, who had turned up in an optimistic mood but filed out before full time in a state of shock.
Some of those who hung around couldn't contain their frustration. Javier Hernandez had to go over to appeal to one section of the crowd to stop throwing debris onto the field.
Head coach Juan Carlos Osorio suddenly finds himself sitting on a warm seat. His team had not suffered defeat in his first 10 games in charge, but such a heavy loss will lead to questions about his future.
Prior to facing Chile, Mexico had conceded just two goals in Osorio's entire reign.
His team selection will be heavily scrutinised. Guillermo Ochoa got the nod in goal after all three goalkeepers—Alfredo Talavera and Jose de Jesus Corona the others—in the 23-man squad had been used in the group stage.
Ochoa was the popular choice to start (he gained more than 88 per cent of the votes in a Bleacher Report poll), yet he ended up picking more out of his net than a fisherman following a successful catch.
Surprisingly, Rafael Marquez's name was nowhere to be seen in the starting XI—not at centre-back or as the anchoring midfielder in Mexico's 4-3-3 formation.
Osorio—who missed out on a semi-final against his homeland of Colombia—also raised eyebrows with his decision to put on Carlos Pena at half-time. The midfielder had been one of only two players not used in the previous round yet was suddenly called on to try to help launch a comeback.
But while their coach may come under pressure, Mexico's players should not escape without blame.
The sun was setting when the game kicked off, meaning Mexico's half of the field was bathed in sunshine for much of the first 45 minutes. It was appropriate, considering El Tri had to chase shadows from the kick-off.
Chile's second goal, scored by Vargas in the 44th minute, summed up the opening half.
Sanchez's awareness and movement were key, but Mexico inexplicably allowed the Arsenal player time and space to pick out a cross.
When it came in from the left, Vargas was the quickest to react. He got in front of his marker, controlled the ball perfectly into his path and then steered a low shot across Ochoa and into the goal.
At the other end of the field, poor Hernandez barely had a kick. Mexico's centre-forward was left isolated as the wingers were forced to track back, and the usually attacking Hector Herrera never had chance to offer support from midfield.
Chicharito finished the 1st half with only 13 total touches, 5 fewer than México's goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who had 18 touches.
Osorio made a double change at half-time, bringing on Pena and forward Raul Jimenez, yet things went from bad to worse.
Mexico's slim chances of a comeback disappeared when they coughed up possession just outside their own area in the 49th minute. Chile's high press allowed Vidal to set up Sanchez for an easy finish.
From then on, it was just a matter of how many Chile wanted to score.
Even Osorio's attempt at damage limitation—he sent on defender Diego Reyes to replace winger Jesus Manuel Corona with the score 5-0 in the 60th minute—failed.
The goals kept going in, leading to more and more empty seats inside the stadium. Chile finished with a magnificent seven.
Mexico bowed out of the Copa America Centenario with their tails firmly between their legs. El Tri were dominated and drubbed by a side that—considering Chile also played a 4-3-3—beat them at their own game.
Having arrived in the United States in fine form and with exceedingly high hopes, Osorio's squad heads home after a humiliating defeat that will lead to a lengthy postmortem.
Mexico vs. Chile Betting Odds Preview, Copa America Prediction
Jun 18, 2016
Mexico's goalie Guillermo Ochoa tosses a sombrero off the field after it was thrown from the stands by a spectator during the first half of an exhibition soccer game against Paraguay, Saturday, May 28, 2016, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Defending Copa America champion Chile will face Group C winner Mexico in the last of four quarterfinal matchups Saturday night at Levi’s Stadium.
The Chileans have won two straight since falling 2-1 to Argentina in their opener on June 6, while El Tricolor are coming off a 1-1 draw with Venezuela following a pair of two-goal wins. Mexico is listed as a slight +155 favorite (bet $100 to win $155) at sportsbooks monitored by Odds Shark.
Match Odds: Mexico +155, Chile +170, Draw +200 (Matchup Report)
The winner of this game will take on Colombia in the semifinals Wednesday, and neither can afford to look ahead here because both teams are more than capable of moving on. In what could be the most evenly matched quarterfinal pairing, Mexico is favored based mainly on its strong defensive play, limiting opponents to just two goals in three games during group play.
El Tricolor outscored the opposition 6-2 overall to finish with a larger goal difference than Venezuela, which placed second in Group C to earn a meeting with tournament favorite Argentina.
The Chileans have doubled their scoring output in each of their first three games, and they dominated Panama 4-2 on Tuesday to clinch a quarterfinal berth.
Led by three scorers with two goals apiece in Arturo Vidal, Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas, they will pose a serious test for Mexico’s defense and whoever ends up starting in goal.
Mexico had three different goalies start in group play, although Guillermo Ochoa is viewed by many as the best of them. Ochoa earned a shutout win over Jamaica and figures to get the nod here in the team’s biggest game of the tournament to date. But last year, it was Jose Corona who started against Chile in a 3-3 draw during Group A play.
In fact, Corona started all three games, as Mexico finished fourth in the group with two draws and a loss, while Chile went on to win the tournament as the host country. He was also in goal against Venezuela on Monday, and a change to Ochoa this time around could be the difference in advancing to the semis.
This should be a tight match regardless, so look for Mexico to do just enough to beat Chile.
Mexico Must Win Midfield Battle If They Are to End Chile's Copa America Reign
Jun 17, 2016
Mexico's Hector Herrera (L) and Venezuela's Rolf Feltscher vie for the ball during their Copa America Centenario football tournament match in Houston, Texas, United States, on June 13, 2016. / AFP / ALFREDO ESTRELLA (Photo credit should read ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP/Getty Images)
With all due respect to the nations in the other three quarter-finals at the Copa America Centenario, Mexico against Chile is the tie of the round.
Saturday’s game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, is a clash worthy of being the final.
In one corner stands Mexico, a nation on a 22-match unbeaten run who, while not quite playing on home soil, will have the majority of support inside the venue (which is sold out, according to Jon Arnold of Goal).
In the other corner is Chile, the 2015 Copa champions who, after scoring a combined tally of six goals in their last two outings, could be coming back into form at just the right time.
The countries met in a pre-tournament friendly on June 2. Mexico came out on top—Javier Hernandez, on as a late substitute, scored the only goal of the game with four minutes remaining.
Hirving Lozano of Mexico (L) vies for the ball with Eugenio Mena (R) of Chile during the friendly match between the Mexican national team and Chile national team at the Qualcomm Stadium, on June 1st, 2016, in San Diego, California. / AFP / VICTOR STRAFFO
This time, however, there is nothing friendly about their meeting.
Their previous competitive fixture was just over a year ago. On June 15, at the 2015 Copa America, host nation Chile and Mexico fought out a 3-3 draw in Group A.
Four days later, El Tri were beaten 2-1 by Ecuador and missed out on qualifying for the knockout stages. They haven’t lost since, despite a change of permanent coach during the streak.
Current boss Juan Carlos Osorio had won nine on the spin before Monday’s 1-1 draw with Venezuela. Now, the Colombian faces the biggest test of his short but successful reign.
When it comes to picking a team, Osorio has been chopping and changing ever since taking charge. Now he needs to decide whether to stick or twist.
El Tri have never won the Copa America, but they have all the tools needed to make history in 2016. There's strength in depth in their squad, speed on the flanks with their plethora of wingers and, in Hernandez, a supreme poacher up top to take the chances they create.
As Duncan Tucker pointed out in the Guardian, it is hard not to carried away with the idea this could be their year to finally lift the trophy:
Mexico have not made it past the quarter-finals in a World Cup and they have never won the Copa America, with defeats to Argentina and Colombia in the 1993 and 2001 finals respectively representing the closest they have come to lifting the trophy.
Expectant fans are beginning to dream that this could be their year, but as Mexico’s momentum builds, so too does the pressure on Osorio to deliver. His side may never get a better shot.
To keep the dream alive, El Tri have to work their way past Chile.
Per Transfermarkt.co.uk, both countries started with a 4-3-3 formation in their friendly meeting earlier in the month.
Osorio is known to adapt his team’s system to how the opposition play. With La Roja likely to field three central midfielders again, El Tri's coach will not want to be caught short of numbers in the engine room.
ESPN FC journalist Tom Marshall—who specialises in covering Mexican football—tweeted a suggested starting XI on Thursday:
There is plenty to excite Mexican fans in that side, particularly up front. FC Porto’s Jesus "Tecatito" Corona scored a stunning goal to draw his side level against Venezuela, while Hirving Lozano is one of the brightest prospects in the domestic game.
Hernandez, meanwhile, was rested from the starting XI for the final group fixture, but he will no doubt return to his rightful spot in the centre of the forward line. He needs just one more goal to equal Jared Borgetti’s Mexican record of 46.
For all the talent up top, El Tri cannot prosper if they do not have possession. With that in mind, the key battle in California will be in the middle of the field.
Trying to guess an Osorio lineup is never easy, but you can be certain he will find places for Andres Guardado and Hector Herrera in the team.
The two midfielders are pivotal. Good in possession, they also have great awareness. With striker Hernandez alone in the middle, one of Guardado or, more likely, Herrera will look to get into the area to provide support.
Herrera has already scored in the competition, netting Mexico’s final goal in the 3-1 triumph over Uruguay. He can also create, too. Per Zachary Singer of ESPN Stats & Info, the 26-year-old has laid on 11 chances in the three Group C games, more than any other player in the tournament.
His form for club and country could earn him a lucrative summer switch. According to Mimmo Malfitano of La Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Gazzetta World), Napoli and Liverpool are both interested in signing the player.
Before he works out where his future lies, Herrera will hope to extend his time away on international duty. For that to happen, he must help Mexico overcome a Chile midfield containing Bayern Munich's Arturo Vidal.
However, Guardado and Herrera are capable of competing with any of their big-name rivals at the Copa.
Guardado's importance to Mexico was made clear by his absence in the group game against Jamaica. Sent off against Uruguay, he watched on as his team-mates turned in a rather sloppy performance in a 2-0 win.
Guilty of giving the ball away inside their own half, they were fortunate the Jamaicans didn't punish them. Rest assured, a Chile attack featuring Alexis Sanchez will not be so forgiving.
But, if Mexico are able to seize control in midfield thanks to the efforts of Guardado and Herrera, there is every chance they can sink La Roja and reach the last four.
Mexico Must Work out Who Is Their No. 1 Goalkeeper Ahead of Chile Quarter-Final
Jun 15, 2016
Mexican goalkeepers (L-R) Alfredo Talavera, Guillermo Ochoa and Jesus Corona train at Episcopal High School in Houston, Texas on June 11, 2016. Mexico will face Venezuela on June 13 in their third match of the Copa America. / AFP / ALFREDO ESTRELLA (Photo credit should read ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP/Getty Images)
With Monday's 1-1 draw against Venezuela, Juan Carlos Osorio saw his winning run as Mexico coach come to an end.
Now the coach has to make sure El Tri's run at the Copa America Centenario doesn't come to an end, too.
Despite battling back to grab a point in Houston, Texas, Osorio saw his perfect record come to an end. More importantly, though, the result made sure they avoided Argentina in the quarter-finals.
Instead, Chile are the team that stands in Mexico's way. It may seem odd that the reigning champions are considered the lesser of two evils, but it has to be better than facing a team including Lionel Messi, right?
PASADENA, CA - JUNE 09: Head Coach Juan Carlos Osorio of Mexico waits before the start of play against Jamaica during Copa America Centenario at Rose Bowl on June 9, 2016 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
El Tri and La Roja have recent history—the former triumphed 1-0 in a pre-Copa friendly in the United States.
The two nations now meet again at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Saturday. The venue is the home of the San Francisco 49ers, an NFL team that has a 53-man roster for their games.
Osorio has just 23 players in his Copa squad—and he isn't afraid to use them.
The Colombian has fielded 21 players in the tournament so far. According to Transfermarkt.co.uk, only Candido Ramirez and Carlos Pena have failed to register a solitary minute on the field so far.
Hector Herrera and Hector Moreno are the only ones to have played every minute of the three fixtures in Group C (Andres Guardado might have done so too had he not been sent off against Uruguay).
The rotation policy has even seen all three goalkeepers make one appearance each.
Alfredo Talavera started the 3-1 triumph over Uruguay, only to make way for Guillermo Ochoa for the 2-0 victory against Jamaica.
The clean sheet wasn't enough for Ochoa to keep his place, though. Jose de Jesus Corona was the man between the posts for the group finale against Venezuela.
Quite who Osorio now picks to play in goal against Chile is anyone's guess. No, seriously, you might as well take a guess.
Guillermo Ochoa goalkeeper of Mexico warms up during a traning session at Methodist Training Center in Houston, Texas, on June 12, 2016.
Mexico will face Venezuela on June 13 in their third match of the Copa America. / AFP / ALFREDO ESTRELLA (Phot
Corona was the starter for all three of Mexico's games in their disappointing 2015 Copa America campaign, although that was under former manager Miguel Herrera.
The Cruz Azul 'keeper was a surprise starter against Venezuela. Yet while Jesus "Tecatito" Corona was El Tri's hero in that game with an equalising goal in the 80th minute, it was his namesake who produced an acrobatic late save to deny La Vinotinto a winner.
Ochoa was not even selected by Osorio for the friendly against Senegal in February of this year, nor the home-and-away CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers against Canada.
Kept out of the Malaga starting XI by Carlos Kameni, the 30-year-old was out in the cold for both club and country.
An injury to Kameni opened the door with his La Liga employers. Ochoa seized the chance, finishing the Spanish season strongly with Malaga to earn a recall for the Copa America.
Against Jamaica last Friday, Ochoa again made the most of his opportunity. In making a series of crucial stops, he spared a rather sloppy Mexico from conceding.
Yet Osorio may just go back to the man he started out with.
Talavera was the first man up at the Copa, playing in the 3-1 victory over Uruguay. He made one pivotal block to deny Edinson Cavani in the first half, but—like Dracula—looked troubled by crosses.
In giving the player a score of five out of 10 in his ratings for ESPN FC, Cesar Hernandez wrote: "Even before giving up a goal in the 74th minute, the Toluca player looked uneasy and was lost when he left his area for crosses."
Talavera has turned in the least impressive performance of the three options so far, although the Toluca shot-stopper did start the 1-0 friendly triumph over Chile on June 2.
Basically, it's about as clear as mud who plays in goal for Mexico at the weekend.
Trying to work out what Osorio might do next is nigh-on impossible. To borrow a quote from Winston Churchill, the Mexico boss' selection policy "is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma."
But, as Nayib Moran of ESPN FC pointed out, perhaps now is the time for Osorio to go steady with one of his options: "Osorio's decision to switch goalkeepers in all of its group matches, has prevented its defenders to get accustomed to one main, starting goalkeeper. After what happened against Venezuela, it would be wise for Osorio to settle on a goalkeeper and a set defence for the knockout rounds."
While giving all three men a chance to play at the Copa America has allowed him to assess his options, Osorio has also heaped extra pressure on himself.
Whoever starts against Chile, Mexico's goalkeeper will be in the spotlight.
The performance of the starting 'keeper will be under extra scrutiny, adding a little more pressure to what is a huge game, particularly for the head coach.
All statistics used in the article are from Transfermarkt.co.uk, unless otherwise stated.
