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Honduras aims to clinch a historic victory as they travel to Estadio Azteca to face Mexico for the second leg of their quarter-final tie in the CONCACAF Nations League knockout stage.
Match Preview:
Mexico faced a shocking 2-0 defeat in the opening leg against Honduras, jeopardizing their spot in the semi-finals and raising questions about their form.
This loss placed them on the verge of their first quarter-final exit since the 2005 Gold Cup, highlighting the immense pressure on Jaime Lozano’s team to overturn the deficit.
Despite a strong record against Central American sides and a long unbeaten streak at home, El Tri struggled in recent games, winning only one of their last five matches across competitions.
On the other hand, Honduras surprised many with their resolute display, securing a 2-0 victory in the first leg.
Their solid defensive partnerships and historical victories over Mexico at Estadio Azteca in the past raise hopes of another positive outcome.
Honduras has shown defensive prowess, conceding only once in Reinaldo Rueda’s six competitive matches in charge.
Their recent form and newfound resilience pose a significant challenge for Mexico’s efforts to overturn the aggregate deficit.
Recent Form:
Mexico:
- DWDWDL (Last six matches in all competitions)
- L (Nations League)
Honduras:
- WDWWDW (Last six matches in all competitions)
- LWDWWL (Nations League)
Team News:
Mexico may face goalkeeper concerns with Guillermo Ochoa’s injury in the previous leg. Orbelin Pineda might start following a change in the starting lineup in the last match, and the team will count on key players like Raul Jimenez for an offensive boost.
Honduras, missing Romell Quioto and Kervin Arriaga due to injury, will rely on Anthony Lozano and Bryan Rochez’s attacking prowess. Their solid defensive line and disciplined approach will be crucial to holding onto their lead.
Possible Lineups:
Mexico:(4-3-3)
Malagon;
J. Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez, Gallardo;
Antuna, E. Alvarez, E. Sanchez;
Pineda, Jimenez, H. Lozano
Honduras:(4-2-3-1)
Menjivar;
Najar, Maldonado, Vega, Rosales;
Flores, C. Pineda;
Rivas, Acosta, Palma;
A. Lozano
Prediction: Mexico 1-0 Honduras (Honduras advances on aggregate)
While Mexico may secure a narrow victory at Estadio Azteca, Honduras’s resolute defensive tactics and recent form provide them with the edge to progress to the semi-finals despite a potential loss in the second leg.
