Football | Mexico v Japan preview
A match that could be useful preparation for the upcoming World Cup.
Mexico faces Japan on Sunday in their first match since winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Author | Ajay
Stadium | Oakland Coliseum
With both sides already assured of a place at the 2026 World Cup, the meeting offers a valuable test and a chance to sharpen preparations for the tournament.
It has been a successful period for Mexico
In the summer, they became the most successful nation in Gold Cup history. Javier Aguirre’s men went unbeaten through the tournament, opening with a 3-2 win over the Dominican Republic, followed by a 2-0 victory against Suriname and a goalless draw with Costa Rica in the group stage.
They went on to beat Saudi Arabia 2-0 in the quarter-finals, Honduras 1-0 in the semi-finals and then sealed the crown in the final by beating the hosts United States.
That success came just months after their CONCACAF Nations League victory in March, where they defeated Panama 2-1.
READ MORE | Sports news, discussion and more from Super News Affiliate
READ MORE | Stories from across Mexico
Since Aguirre’s reappointment in July 2024 for his third spell in charge, Mexico have looked revitalised, and are unbeaten in seven matches.
As joint hosts of the 2026 World Cup, Mexico will be eager to maintain momentum and measure themselves against Japan, one of Asia’s most consistent performers.
Mexico holds a significant advantage in the head-to-head record against Japan, winning 5 out of 6 matches between the two senior men's national teams. Japan will also arrive in California chasing a first victory over their opposition since 1996.
How are Japan doing?
They have, however, been in excellent form, winning five of their last seven matches while netting 17 goals and conceding just twice.
Hajime Moriyasu’s side also lifted the EAFF E-1 Championship in July, edging South Korea 1-0 thanks to an early strike from Ryo Germain.
Currently ranked 17th in the FIFA standings, Japan have already secured their place at the 2026 World Cup and will view this fixture as a valuable test against Mexico, who sit four places higher at 13th.
Moriyasu, who has been in charge since 2018, cut a frustrated figure in June when his Japan side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Australia in Perth - their first defeat to the Socceroos in 16 years and first in all competitions since February 2024.
Still, with both teams secure in their World Cup places, Sunday’s encounter will be less about results and more about refining tactics and testing depth.
Comments
Post a Comment