The Mexican national team has re-established its dominance in Concacaf, winning both the Nations League and the Gold Cup. However, the squad still has considerable work ahead to prove its readiness for the 2026 World Cup. At the 2022 World Cup, Mexico failed to advance from the group stage for the first time since 1990 (when they were banned from participation). One would have to go back to 1978 to find another instance where El Tri participated but did not progress beyond the group stage. Despite their consistent ability to exit the group, Mexico has not advanced past the Round of 16 since 1986 – a dubious streak they hope to break at a home World Cup.
Match Information: Mexico vs. Japan
- Date: Saturday, September 6
- Time: 10 p.m. ET
- Location: Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum – Oakland, California
Under Javier Aguirre, their third head coach since 2022, the situation for El Tri is stabilizing. Yet, much like the USMNT, Mexico needs significant victories to demonstrate that their growth extends beyond the region. This is a long-standing issue for North America: regional dominance doesn`t always translate to global success, as teams are often not sufficiently tested against the world`s best. In preparation for the World Cup, Mexico aims to change this trend, with matches against Japan, South Korea, Colombia, and Ecuador scheduled before the end of the October international window.
The Japanese national team, ranked 17th in the world, is in impressive form, boasting a four-match unbeaten run after a June loss to Australia. This is the “Samurai Blue`s” only defeat this calendar year, highlighting the depth of talent at Hajime Moriyasu`s disposal. Their offense is capable of creating significant problems for Mexico, and even a draw would represent a considerable step forward for Aguirre`s side.
There is always immense pressure on Mexico to succeed, and recent performances have only amplified it. Losing to Japan is something that can happen to any team, but for El Tri, such an outcome is less acceptable. Mexico`s defense has been stellar, conceding only three goals in the Gold Cup, but if someone doesn`t step up to join Raul Jimenez in bolstering the attack, disappointment may well be on the horizon.
