Copa America 2024 Group D : Mexico V/s. Venezuela Match Preview and Lineups

Copa America 2024 Group Stage

26 June, 2024 - Indian Date

MetLife Stadium

MATCH TIMES

India

06:30 AM

UAE

05:00 AM

Saudi Arabia

04:00 AM

FULL TIME

Mexico [1-1] Venezuela

Predicted Lineups:

Mexico possible starting lineup: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Di Maria, De Paul, Lo Celso, Mac Allister; Messi, Alvarez

Venezuela possible starting lineup: Bravo; Isla, Lichnovsky, Diaz, Suazo; Echeverria, Pulgar; Davila, Sanchez, Diaz; Vargas

Ecuador and Jamaica will both be aiming to secure their first points at the 2024 Copa America when they clash in Group B action on Wednesday at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Ecuador's Challenges and Key Players

Ecuador, known as La Tri, faced a tough opener against Venezuela, losing 2-1 after conceding two quick goals in the second half. The match saw Ecuador reduced to 10 men after a VAR red card decision on team captain Enner Valencia just 22 minutes in. Despite being down a man and holding only 16% possession after the expulsion, they managed to take the lead five minutes before halftime but couldn't maintain it. This defeat marked Ecuador's third consecutive loss in their opening match of the Copa America, extending their winless streak in the tournament to nine games. Additionally, it was their first defeat after leading at halftime since October 2021, also against Venezuela.

Without Enner Valencia, Ecuador will rely heavily on other key players. Jeremy Sarmiento, who scored his second goal for La Tri against Venezuela, will be crucial in the attack, though he and Kendry Paez need to avoid yellow cards to ensure their availability for the final group fixture. The absence of their captain puts additional pressure on the squad to step up and secure a win.

Jamaica's Struggle and Potential Breakthrough

Jamaica, known as the Reggae Boyz, also faced a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mexico in their opener. Despite having a goal by Michail Antonio ruled out by VAR for offside, Jamaica showed promise. A stunning volley from Gerardo Arteaga ultimately decided the match, ending Jamaica's three-match winning streak.

The Reggae Boyz are yet to secure a victory or score a goal in their seven all-time Copa America matches. However, in 2024, they have not conceded in the first half of any of their seven matches, although they have been outscored 6-2 in the second half. Jamaica will aim to leverage their strong defensive record in the first half while addressing their vulnerabilities in the latter stages of the game.

Jamaica will look to Jahmali Waite, who continues to start in place of injured captain Andre Blake, and defender Damion Lowe, who returned from a minor injury. Forward Shamar Nicholson, with three goals in World Cup qualification, will be key in their attacking efforts and could surpass Walter Boyd in all-time goals for Jamaica.

Historical Context and Head-to-Head

This match will be the fifth international meeting between Ecuador and Jamaica. Ecuador has dominated these encounters, winning four out of five, with the only exception being a 0-0 draw in a 2009 friendly.

Match Outlook and Strategies

Ecuador will need to overcome the absence of Enner Valencia and capitalize on their offensive opportunities, with players like Jeremy Sarmiento playing a critical role. Jamaica, on the other hand, will focus on their strong defensive performance in the first half and seek to improve their second-half play to break their Copa America scoring drought and secure their first points.

Conclusion

Both teams are under pressure to perform, with Ecuador needing to recover from a disappointing opening match and Jamaica aiming to make history with their first Copa America points. The outcome will hinge on each team's ability to execute their strategies and manage the high-stakes environment.