Molero Match or Meaningful Test? Mexico Takes on Valencia & USA in Preparation for 2026
Picks, Memes, and more! >>
This Saturday, Mexico's National Team will take on Valencia CF in a friendly at Estadio Cuauhtémoc, Puebla. While not an official match, it's crucial for Mexico as they continue preparing for the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off at Estadio Azteca. With limited international windows left, each game provides valuable opportunities for Mexico to refine their tactics and solidify their lineup.
Valencia arrives in Mexico under less favorable conditions, sitting 18th in La Liga and struggling with form. With just one win, five losses, and three draws so far this season, the Spanish club faces an uphill battle, further complicated by the absence of key players due to international call-ups. Fans from both sides are questioning the significance of this match: Valencia supporters argue the team should focus on recovering, while Mexican fans seem puzzled by the choice of opposition, especially with ticket sales lagging behind compared to the upcoming Mexico vs. USMNT clash.
Mexico will then face the United States on October 15, a game where both teams will aim to improve their recent performances. Mexico has had a mixed run, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five outings, showcasing defensive solidity but struggling to score. The U.S. enters the match on the back of three straight losses, managing only one win from their last five games. Despite their attacking edge, the U.S. defense has proven shaky. The Americans have dominated recent head-to-heads, winning four of their last five meetings, but both teams will be looking to turn the page and find consistency.
Everyone’s a gangster until a real gangster walks in….
WILL MEXICO FINALLY BEAT THE USMNT?!
WATCH:
USA vs MEXICO
Head-to-Head Record:
The U.S. has dominated the recent head-to-head meetings between the two sides, winning four of the last five encounters. In the most recent clash in March 2024, the U.S. defeated Mexico 2-0. Mexico's last victory over the U.S. dates back several years, as they've struggled to break down their northern rivals, scoring just once in their last five meetings.
Key Stats:
Mexico has seen low-scoring matches recently, with only 1 of their last 5 games having more than 2.5 goals.
USA's defense has been leakier, with 2 of their last 5 games going over 2.5 goals and 3 matches seeing both teams score.
The U.S. has outscored Mexico 8-1 in their last 5 meetings, showing a clear edge in attack.
Prediction:
Given the U.S.'s dominance in recent head-to-head encounters and Mexico's ongoing struggles in attack, this match might initially seem to favor the U.S. However, with the USMNT missing key players and the game being played on Mexican soil, Mexico is under immense pressure to secure a victory. Simply put, Mexico *has* to win. Fueled by the home advantage and a sense of urgency, I’m backing Mexico to edge it out with a 1-0 win. Hungry dogs run faster, and Mexico should rise to the occasion.
THE COMPAS COMMUNITY IS LIVE ON DISCORD!
Thanks for reading Café Asada - by CABRA Sports! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Let us know your picks on our socials and make sure you’re following CABRA FUTBOL, FUTBOL ASADA, and if you’re into NFL, check out our CABRA ENDZONE accounts.
CABRA FUTBOL
FUTBOL ASADA
CABRA ENDZONE