The highly anticipated CONCACAF Nations League knockout match kicks off as Mexico commences their campaign against Honduras at Estadio Nacional Chelato Ucles in the quarter-final tie’s opening leg on Friday.
Match Preview:
Honduras secured their quarter-final spot with a significant 4-0 victory over Cuba, showcasing their attacking prowess.
La H maintained a flawless record when scoring multiple goals, emphasizing their offensive strength in this tournament.
Reinaldo Rueda’s side relied on a sturdy defense, conceding the fewest goals among League A nations, displaying their defensive resilience.
Honduras aims to replicate their home success, having won three consecutive matches at home since their defeat against San Pedro.
On the other hand, Mexico, following their ninth Gold Cup victory, reclaims high expectations in the Nations League.
Jaime Lozano’s team showcased a solid defensive strategy during the Gold Cup, conceding only twice in six matches.
However, Mexico’s defensive stability seems to have weakened lately, conceding seven goals in their recent four matches.
Despite this, El Tri have an impressive record in the Nations League, remaining undefeated outside Mexico against Central American sides.
Head-to-Head:
Mexico has dominated recent encounters against Honduras, winning four consecutive games and losing only one in their last 12 meetings against La H.
Forms:
Honduras CONCACAF Nations League form: L-W-D-W
Honduras form (all competitions): W-D-L-W-D-W
Mexico form (all competitions): W-W-D-D-W-D
Team News:
Honduras has included Major League Soccer (MLS) players like Denil Maldonado, Bryan Acosta, and Romell Quioto for this crucial match.
Captain Anthony Lozano and goalkeeper Edrick Menjivar aim to maintain their form, having contributed significantly in recent games.
Mexico enters the fixture with an experienced lineup, except for Julian Quinones, who is yet to make a senior squad appearance.
Guillermo Ochoa and Raul Jimenez lead the squad, with notable contributions expected from Hirving Lozano and Uriel Antuna.
Predicted Lineups:
Honduras:(4-4-2)
Menjivar;
Nunez, Maldonado, Najar, Rivas;
Rodriguez, Acosta, Arriaga, Ruiz;
Quioto, A. Lozano
Mexico:(4-2-3-1)
Ochoa;
J. Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez, Gallardo;
Alvarez, Romo;
Antuna, Martin, H. Lozano;
Jimenez
Prediction: Honduras 0-2 Mexico
While Honduras displayed defensive strength in the group stage, Mexico’s renewed attacking prowess may prove challenging for them. Mexico, under Lozano’s management, appears revitalized and likely to clinch a win.