Wednesday, February 07, 2007

USA - MEXICO


The biggest legend in Mexican football, Hugo Sanchez, has finally taken charge of the national team, the job, he has been telling anyone that would listen , was rightfully his, for many years.


Now it's time for him to produce the goods and if it can come against the USA, then so much the better. Sanchez has named his strongest possible squad and has some real talent at his disposal, in addition, Mexico have some excellent youngsters looking to break into the full team.


The USA are without Keller, Reyna, McBride and Beasley, basically the 4 players most casual observers, could name. The squad is made up mostly of domestic talent and their league has not yet started, most of these players have been at a training camp for several weeks, so fitness may not be too much of an issue, but there is nothing like match practice.


The US have a fantastic recent home record over the visitors, with six wins and a draw and an 11-0 goal difference, in the last 7 meetings. However, only two of the American squad from the last meeting are available tonight.


This record really rankles with Mexico and they are determined to put one over on their neighbours. The match, which takes place in Glendale, Arizona, is a 62,000 sell out and the crowd should be fairly evenly split. It is 12 years since USA last played in this stadium, so no massive home advantage.


Cannot see Sanchez, who has the full respect of the public and team, losing this one, it matters too much and I have to take them with the small handicap start.


5 points Mexico + 1/4 ball 1.72 asian line.


Good Luck.

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