Mexico's Ongoing Struggles on the International Stage
Mexico's national football team once again faced disappointment after exiting a major tournament at the group stage. The latest setback came at the 2022 World Cup, where they failed to progress beyond the initial rounds. This continues a troubling trend for the team, which has experienced underwhelming performances in recent competitions.
Over the past year and a half, Mexico had two lackluster showings in the Concacaf Nations League, further highlighting the team's inconsistency. Despite these challenges, the appointment of Jaime Lozano as the full-time coach after initially serving as an interim coach brought a glimmer of hope. Lozano earned his permanent role by leading Mexico to victory in the Concacaf Gold Cup, a significant achievement in an otherwise turbulent period.
However, Mexico's struggles persisted in the 2022 Copa America, where they were unable to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. Needing a win against Ecuador to advance, Mexico dominated possession and created numerous chances but ultimately fell short. With nearly 60% of possession and outshooting Ecuador 19-9, their effort was commendable but lacked the finishing touch. It wasn't until the 65th minute that Mexico managed their first shot on target, a telling sign of their inefficiency upfront.
Statistically, Mexico generated just 0.86 expected goals in the match against Ecuador, underlining their inability to convert opportunities into goals. Throughout their three Copa America games, Mexico scored only one goal despite an expected goals tally of 4.71. Defensively, they conceded just one goal during the group stage, showcasing a solid backline but an anemic attack that hindered their progress.
One critical issue plaguing the current squad is the lack of a prolific goal scorer. No player on the roster boasts more than 13 international goals, a stark contrast to the firepower required at this level. Santiago Gimenez, who enjoyed a stellar season with Feyenoord by netting 26 goals and providing eight assists in Europe, has struggled to replicate his club form on the international stage. With just four goals in 30 appearances for Mexico, Gimenez's output has been a point of concern.
As Mexico prepares to host the World Cup in two years, the stakes have never been higher. Fan expectations are soaring, and scrutiny is intensifying on the national team. The shadow of past disappointments looms large, and the pressure to perform is palpable. The Mexican football federation and coaching staff have their work cut out for them as they seek to build a team capable of meeting these expectations on home soil.
While the defensive solidity offers a foundation to build upon, the attacking woes need urgent addressing. Developing a cohesive and effective attack will be crucial in turning the tide for Mexico's national team. The next two years will be pivotal as they prepare for what is arguably the most significant opportunity in their footballing history. Navigating these challenges with precision and determination will define their path forward.