Can Mexico win the 2010 FIFA World Cup?
Can the El Tri continue to ride on the momentum that carried them where they are right now?
Mexico qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup by finishing second in CONCACAF qualifying, just one point behind the United States. They were undefeated at home but inconsistent on the road. They won impressively in Costa Rica 3-0 but fell in Honduras 1-3.
In the Gold Cup, Mexico was impressive as they advanced rather easily through the group stage and defeated Haiti 4-0 in the second round. In the semifinal, they drew with a tough Costa Rican team but advanced on penalties. In a memorable final, Mexico crushed the host United States 5-0. Though the United States did not field their best players, it was still an impressive victory.
Coming to the World Cup in South Africa, Mexico is the eight-time and current CONCACAF Gold Cup champions. They also won a FIFA Confederations Cup in 1999. The Mexican team is currently ranked No.17 in the world. They have a long, storied soccer tradition and have the nickname ”El Tri.”
One of the key players team Mexico has is Giovani dos Santos. Dos Santos is an intriguing player that has been hyped for years, and his first World Cup may be the time he finally breaks out as a legitimate star. Reared in Barcelona’s youth division, he played for the senior team at the tender age of 18.
Mexico is coached by Javier Aguirre, who has been a calming presence for the team. Mexico can attack from the wings and from set pieces and can be quite dangerous offensively. The 5-3-2 formation has some tradition in Mexico and Aguirre has been willing to use this formation as it accentuates the wing play.
The first eight seeds in the World Cup consist of the top seven ranked teams and the host nation. Mexico got lucky because they drew the host nation, South Africa. Instead of having to play a top-ranked team, Mexico is playing the second-lowest ranked team in the tournament.
Mexico has gone on to the second round in the past four tournaments, so anything less will be considered a failure for El Tri. However, there is a growing dissatisfaction for qualifying second in the group stage and bowing out in the second round. To truly be happy with them, Mexico will need to advance further.
Mexico’s path may be complicated by teams in the group stage as well as a possible meeting with Argentina in the second round. If the Mexicans are not in top form, they may leave the tournament in disappointment. Still, they are considered a ”dark horse” candidate to win it all.
Which country will win the 2010 FIFA World Cup? Bodog sportsbook has the odds.
Spain 5.50
Brazil 6.00
England 7.00
USA 41.00
Want more odds? Visit Bodog sportsbook for more 2010 FIFA World Cup betting odds. Want to watch soccer live? Get sporting events tickets online now.
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