Mexico Faces Setbacks Amid High Expectations for World Cup Preparation
The Mexican national football team has seen its share of highs and lows in recent years, with the latest disappointment coming at the 2022 World Cup, where they exited at the group stage. The hardships continued as Mexico also struggled in the Concacaf Nations League over the previous year and a half, delivering two unspectacular performances.
However, a glimmer of hope emerged when Jaime Lozano, initially an interim coach, earned a permanent role after leading Mexico to victory in the Concacaf Gold Cup. Yet, despite this triumph, the team's performance in other tournaments has left much to be desired.
Tough Times in Copa America
The recent Copa America was another difficult chapter for Mexico. Needing a win against Ecuador to advance to the quarterfinals, Mexico dominated possession and created numerous chances but ultimately fell short. Even with nearly 60% of the ball and outshooting Ecuador 19-9 in the decisive match, the breakthrough never came. They took a staggering 13 shots before managing their first shot on target in the 65th minute. This inefficiency in front of goal was evident as Mexico generated just 0.86 expected goals in that match.
Over the course of their three Copa America games, Mexico scored just one goal, with an expected goals tally of 4.71. Defensively, they conceded only one goal during the group stage, showcasing a dichotomy of strong defense but lackluster offensive execution. None of the current squad members has more than 13 international goals, underscoring the team's struggles in front of the net.
Individual Performances: Santiago Gimenez
One player who stands out in club football but has yet to make a significant impact on the international stage is Santiago Gimenez. The forward had a stellar season with Feyenoord, netting 26 goals and providing eight assists. However, his form has not translated to the national team—Gimenez has managed just four goals in 30 appearances for Mexico. This disparity raises concerns as the team looks to build a more potent offense.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
With Mexico set to host the World Cup in two years, both fan expectations and scrutiny are increasing. The recent tournament failures put extra pressure on the team and coaching staff to find solutions and improve their form. The Gold Cup victory under Lozano provided temporary relief, but consistent performances are crucial to meet the nation's high expectations.
The coming years will be a test of resilience and adaptability for the Mexican national team. Effective strategies need to be devised to convert possession and chances into goals. The onus will be on both the established players and emerging talent to step up and deliver on the big stage.
As preparations intensify, it will be fascinating to see how Mexico addresses these challenges. The journey to reclaim their position as a formidable force in international football is fraught with obstacles, but with the right mix of tactical acumen and player development, there is potential for a resurgence.