Copa America 2024 Group Stage
1 July, 2024 - Indian Date
State Farm Stadium
MATCH TIMES
India
05:30 AM
UAE
04:00 AM
Saudi Arabia
3:00 AM
FULL TIME
Mexico possible starting lineup: Gonzalez; Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez, Arteaga; Romo, Chavez; Antuna, Pineda, Quinones; Gimenez
Ecuador possible starting lineup: Dominguez; Preciado, Torres, Pacho, Hincapie; Franco, Caicedo; Yeboah, Paez, Sarmiento; Valencia
Team Previews
Mexico:
Mexico faces a crucial match against Ecuador, needing a victory to stay in the Copa America. A defeat on matchday two left Jaime Lozano's team on the brink of elimination. This match is vital as failing to win would mark the third consecutive group stage exit for Mexico in the Copa America. Historically, Mexico has struggled to secure maximum points in their final group fixtures, failing to do so in their last four appearances.
Their recent form against CONMEBOL opponents has been poor, with six losses in their previous seven encounters. The last match saw them fail to score, losing 1-0 to Venezuela, which was their first goalless group stage game since 2015. Notably, captain Edson Alvarez missed the last match due to injury, with Luis Romo stepping in as a holding midfielder alongside Luis Chavez. Mexico will look to break their recent trend and secure a much-needed win to advance.
Ecuador:
Ecuador enters this match in a stronger position, having earned their first points of the tournament with a win over Jamaica on matchday two. Felix Sanchez's side has been in good form, winning three of their last four matches across all competitions. A defeat to Mexico is the only result that could prevent them from progressing to the knockout stage for the third time in the last four editions of this tournament. Ecuador has a solid record in their final group fixtures, not losing since a 4-2 defeat to Brazil in 2011.
Their recent performances have been impressive, particularly in scoring multiple goals. In their last 13 matches where they scored more than once, they have emerged victorious each time. Enner Valencia, who missed the last match due to a red card, is eligible to return, which will bolster their attacking options. Kevin Rodriguez and Alan Minda, who played crucial roles in the victory against Jamaica, will look to continue their contributions.
Historical Context
Mexico and Ecuador have faced each other nine times, with Mexico winning four, Ecuador winning three, and two matches ending in a draw. The recent history between the two teams has been mixed, with Mexico failing to win or score in their last two encounters against Ecuador. However, Mexico has had the upper hand in their Copa America meetings, winning four of the five matchups.
Betting Odds and Predictions
The bookmakers predict a close match, with odds favoring a tight contest. Mexico has odds of 2.90 to win, 3.20 for a draw, and 2.60 for Ecuador to win. The close odds reflect the competitive nature of this matchup, with both teams having strong motivations to secure a victory.
Conclusion
This match is poised to be a thrilling encounter with high stakes for both teams. Mexico needs a win to avoid a group stage exit, while Ecuador aims to secure their place in the knockout stages. The return of key players and the competitive history between the teams add to the anticipation. Fans can catch all the action live on FanCode.