Hugo Sánchez and Jared Borgetti discuss the significance of the upcoming match against the United States for Javier Aguirre and his objectives with the Mexican national team.
ESPN analysts offer their perspectives on what to expect in the friendly match between Mexico and the United States.
Get ready for another thrilling chapter in the rivalry between Mexico and the United States!
Recent coaching changes in both teams have introduced high-profile figures, such as Mauricio Pochettino for the United States, while Mexico has opted for experienced manager Javier Aguirre. This matchup presents both teams with an early opportunity to make a significant impact.
The upcoming game at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara is not just about regional dominance; it also serves as a unique chance to build momentum toward the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by both nations along with Canada.
Both teams are currently in a state of resetting. What has led them to this point?
The coaching changes reflect the desire to pursue new strategies and achieve better results, particularly with the World Cup in sight. Both teams feel they have underperformed with their available talent. Mexico has brought in a coach who understands its players well, while the United States has brought in an international coach with a successful background in Europe, seeking the best outcomes with their European-based players. — Jared Borgetti
The Mexican Football Federation had a plan leading to the 2026 World Cup, initially spearheaded by Gerardo Torrado and Yon de Luisa. However, the disastrous performance in Qatar 2022 shattered those plans, resulting in three coaching changes in just two years for the national team. The newest leader is Javier ‘Vasco’ Aguirre, known for stabilizing teams in crisis.
Meanwhile, the U.S. has prioritized continuity and patience, allowing them to rise in the CONCACAF rankings, although they have struggled to make a mark beyond North America and the Caribbean. This has prompted a re-evaluation with Pochettino. — Omar Flores Aldana
Like Mexico, the U.S. has seen few positives since the 2002 World Cup. They aim to prove they are more than just a dominant force in CONCACAF, but their struggles against elite teams were evident during their poor showing in the recent Copa América. The U.S. faced adversity in preparation, with losses in friendlies leading up to the tournament.
Despite having promising talent, doubts lingered regarding former coach Gregg Berhalter’s ability to maximize player potential and elevate the team’s overall ceiling. — César Hernández
Widespread missteps and poor sporting outcomes plague both countries. Mexico appears particularly adept at compounding its failures. After hitting rock bottom in Qatar, officials, coaches, and players displayed a capacity to sink even lower.
The same can be said for the U.S., which, despite having several key players in Europe, has struggled to establish a cohesive project, cycling through coaches amid external controversies, lacking the necessary continuity for growth as a national team. — Daniel Montes de Oca
What are Mexico’s strengths and weaknesses heading into the match?
Mexico’s strengths lie in teamwork and the identity the coach instills in the players, which is vital for engaging fans during games. The challenge is restoring confidence among players due to recent poor results. It’s essential to rebuild trust and support from fans to create a positive atmosphere during matches. — Jared Borgetti
Mexico’s defensive line is another strength, with César Montes and Johan Vásquez showcasing consistency after their success in the Under-23 category. However, a glaring weakness remains in the forward line. Past coaches have struggled to find effective strikers, with disappointing scoring performances in recent tournaments. The return of Raúl Jiménez is seen as a potential solution to this problem. — Omar Flores Aldana
While it’s early days, the U.S. showcased some attacking promise, particularly through Christian Pulisic, who proved effective on the left wing. Brenden Aaronson and goal-scorers Yunus Musah and Ricardo Pepi also stood out.
However, the U.S. may take time to refine its defensive transitions. In their initial outing under Pochettino against Panama, the defense faced some testing moments that could have resulted in goals against them. — César Hernández
Aguirre’s arrival signifies a focus on discipline and a commitment to justice in player selection, only calling up the best performers. The ongoing challenge remains Mexico’s lack of top-tier talent, with most players competing outside elite environments, with exceptions like Edson Álvarez and Raúl Jiménez. — Daniel Montes de Oca
Which players should fans keep an eye on?
It’s not about identifying a single standout player, as the team lacks a player who can carry them to new heights. The focus should be on teamwork and a well-defined game plan. Individual brilliance is less crucial than the collective strategy in achieving success. — Jared Borgetti
Mexico’s veteran players, like Guillermo Ochoa and Raúl Jiménez, will be pivotal. Ochoa, at 39, has a chance to reaffirm his suitability for the World Cup amid rising competition in goal, while Jiménez, coming off strong performances in the Premier League, is expected to play a crucial role. — Omar Flores Aldana
Despite the loss of key players, such as Christian Pulisic and others returning to their clubs, the U.S. team will rely on Antonee Robinson to impact their left wing. His performance against Panama was noteworthy, as he was integral in creating scoring opportunities.
As this new process unfolds under Pochettino, the U.S. has several tactics at their disposal, with Robinson expected to play a vital role. — César Hernández
With seasoned players and fresh faces among Mexico’s squad, it would be beneficial for newcomers to gain meaningful minutes. The spotlight will be on Ochoa’s potential starting position against the U.S., along with the possible debut of naturalized player Germán Berterame. — Daniel Montes de Oca
Which team stands to lose more, and why?
Mexico has more at stake, especially with both matches taking place on home soil. Rarely do they compete against the U.S. in Mexico for friendlies. Following a recent loss at Estadio Azteca, it’s crucial for Aguirre to secure a strong performance. A victory against the U.S. could help mend relations with fans. — Jared Borgetti
Due to their current transitional phase, the U.S. faces lower expectations. Pochettino will have ample time to work on team deficiencies and learn about his players. Conversely, Aguirre urgently needs to win back fan trust, as Mexico hasn’t beaten the U.S. in five years, contributing to dwindling support from their base. — Omar Flores Aldana
The pressure is mounting on the Mexican national team, particularly after a 2-2 draw against Valencia, which drew criticism from fans.
Pochettino remains a fresh face adapting to his surroundings, while Aguirre returns for a third term in a firefighter role. Failure to extinguish any potential challenges posed by the U.S. could lead to criticism, especially playing at home. — César Hernández
While this is an international friendly, it serves as a critical moment for both teams to reassess their paths for improvement. Although Mexico has home-field advantage, a loss would exacerbate an existing crisis, while a win would not necessarily signal a full reversal of their recent struggles. — Daniel Montes de Oca
What should we expect from the atmosphere, and how do Mexican fans feel about the match?
Despite the recent match in Puebla failing to ignite excitement, the upcoming games, especially in Guadalajara, are expected to draw strong attendance. The long scarcity of national matches in various cities calls for strong support from local fans. With tickets reportedly sold out in Guadalajara, optimism remains high for a positive result. — Jared Borgetti
The fervor isn’t as strong for the Mexican team as it is in the U.S., partly due to consistent fixture scheduling in American territories and recent subpar performances. The Mexican Football Federation aims to reconnect with supporters, hoping that positive results can help negate issues of crowd behavior seen in the past. — Omar Flores Aldana
Anticipating a positive turnout in Jalisco, it’s essential to consider that fan support will hinge on the game’s momentum. An enthusiastic start is likely, but falling behind could spark discontent. Given the trend of historical frustrations, Mexican fans may show less patience after years of disappointments. — Daniel Montes de Oca
The pressure on the Mexican team has intensified following the draw against Valencia. What are your match predictions?
I hope for victories in both matches. The game against Valencia appears winnable if they demonstrate a solid game plan. Against the United States, winning is critical, even by any means necessary. — Jared Borgetti
I predict Mexico will win 2-1 against the United States at Estadio Akron, as Javier Aguirre gets to know his squad better than Pochettino. Aguirre is the last coach to secure a victory over the U.S. on home soil and is unafraid to prioritize results over style. — Omar Flores Aldana
My prediction is a 2-2 draw. Both managers aim to imprint their vision on the teams, likely leading to an exciting match where attackers can exploit defensive uncertainties. It should be entertaining, as many players will want to impress their coaches. — César Hernández
It appears the match is evenly poised, with Mexico needing to capitalize on home advantage to potentially shake off the recent dominance of the U.S.
While predicting outcomes is risky, I foresee a Mexico win, perhaps 2-1. — Daniel Montes de Oca