A tactical preview for Mexico playing in Copa America 2024

El Tri will head to the U.S. with sky-high expectations but can they come close to reaching the finals this time? If there’s one thing you need to know about Mexico’s national team it’s that high expectations precede everything they do. It doesn’t matter the competition, the form, or the situation – if there’s a game being played those who support El Tri expect them to win.

These expectations aren’t always realistic but they are always real. There’s no avoiding them. If Mexico ever falls short the punishment is always swift. That’s the situation head coach Jaime Lozano faces heading into this summer’s Copa America. The pressure is immense and the stakes are high for every match they play.

Mexico though are not among the favorites to win in the United States. There’s still an aura of chaos lingering from the 2022 World Cup, with players still taking shots at former coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino. On talent alone, El Tri isn’t among the top three or four teams in this competition either.

Expectations are there though and if Lozano’s Mexico doesn’t live up to them… well, we all know what happens to Mexico managers who fall short. Lozano named a 31-man preliminary roster on May 10 with his final 23 set to be confirmed before El Tri’s tournament opener against Jamaica on June 22.

Predicted Lineup of Mexico National Football Team playing in Copa America 2024

As Mexico heads into Copa America 2024 head coach Jaime Lozano is expected to stick with his preferred 4-3-3 formation. This setup has served him well providing both flexibility and structure. Several key players are certain to start including stars like Giménez and Álvarez while others like Chávez, Montes, and Vásquez are nearly as indispensable.

In goal, we have Malagón as the likely choice providing a solid last line of defense. The back four should feature J. Sánchez and Arteaga as fullbacks with Montes and Vásquez forming a strong central partnership.

In midfield, we have Álvarez who can anchor the trio supported by E. Sánchez and Chávez. This combination brings balance with Álvarez providing defensive stability and Chávez offering creativity and drive forward.

Up front, we have the attacking trio which is expected to be Antuna, Giménez, and Quiñones. Giménez as the central striker will be the main goal threat flanked by the pace and skill of Antuna and Quiñones. This forward line has the potential to trouble any defense in the tournament.

Mexico Best XI: Luis Malagón (GK); Jorge Sánchez, César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Gerardo Arteaga; Edson Álvarez (C), Érick Sánchez, Luis Chávez; Uriel Antuna, Santiago Giménez, Julián Quiñones

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Team Strengths

• Strong Attacking Options – Mexico boasts a potent attack with players like Santiago Giménez leading the line. Giménez has been in top form scoring crucial goals for both club and country. With the support of wingers like Antuna and Quiñones Mexico’s forward line can pose significant threats to any defense.
• Solid Midfield – The midfield trio of Álvarez, E. Sánchez, and Chávez offers a blend of defensive solidity and creative flair. Edson Álvarez is known for his defensive prowess while Chávez brings creativity and vision. This balance helps control the tempo of the game and creates opportunities.
• Experience in Major Tournaments – Mexico has a rich history in international competitions including strong performances in previous Copa America tournaments. This experience can be invaluable in handling the pressures of big matches. Players like Héctor Moreno and Andrés Guardado bring veteran leadership to the squad.

Team Weaknesses

• Defensive Vulnerabilities – While the attacking and midfield units are strong the defense can be a concern. The fullback positions are still being contested, which may lead to inconsistency. Additionally, the central defense pairing lacks the experience of some other top teams.
• Recent Form – Mexico has struggled in recent major tournaments including an early exit in the 2022 World Cup. The team has also not beaten rivals like the United States since 2019. This dip in form could affect their confidence and performance in high-pressure situations during the Copa America.

Mexico Copa America 2024 Key Players to Watch Out For

• Edson Álvarez – Edson Álvarez is a key player for Mexico. At 26 he brings experience and skill to the team. He started his career with Club América in 2016 winning the Liga MX Apertura in 2018. His talent took him to Ajax in 2019 where he played over 100 games and was nominated for Eredivisie Player of the Year in 2021. Now he plays for West Ham United in the Premier League. With over 75 appearances for Mexico Álvarez is a veteran having played in two World Cups and won the CONCACAF Gold Cup twice.

• Luis Malagón – Luis Malagón is set to take over the goalkeeping duties from the legendary Guillermo Ochoa. Malagón, 27, has been impressive for Club América earning the title of best player in Clausura 2024. His heroic saves helped his club win their 15th Liga MX title. Born in Zamora, Mexico, Malagón has made only 4 appearances for the national team but hopes to shine in the Copa America. His recent club successes make him a player to watch as he aims to maintain his stellar form on the international stage.

• Santiago Giménez – Santiago Giménez is Mexico’s brightest young star. Born in Buenos Aires but raised in Mexico Giménez has football in his blood. His father Christian Giménez was a former Mexican international. Santiago began his career with Cruz Azul winning several titles including the Liga MX Guardianes in 2021. His talent took him to Feyenoord in the Netherlands where he scored 23 goals in the league and broke Luis Suárez’s record for most Eredivisie goals in a calendar year. Internationally, his highlight was scoring the winning goal in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup final. Giménez is a crucial player for Mexico in the Copa America 2024.

Conclusion

Mexico have a dynamic attack and a balanced midfield which are their main strengths. However, their defensive frailties and recent inconsistent performances pose significant challenges. How they address these weaknesses will be crucial to their success in Copa America 2024.

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