Mexico lock heads against Venezuela in the Centenario Copa America 2016 Group C clash at Reliant Stadium, Houston on Monday.
Mexico and Venezuela have already clinched a spot in the last eight after winning both the games against Uruguay and Jamaica. Both the teams have six points with Mexico sitting at the top spot on a better goal difference. Monday’s group stage battle will see both the teams fighting for a top spot finish in order to avoid Argentina in the quarter-finals
Mexico had a flying start to their campaign and they extended their unbeaten streak to ten matches after defeating Uruguay 3-1 in their opening fixture followed by a convincing 2-0 win over Jamaica.
Venezuela have impressed their fans with two consecutive victories to guarantee themselves a place at the quarter-finals.
They started their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Jamaica and defeated Copa America giants Uruguay 1-0 in their next game and are desperate to hold onto their successful run in Monday’s clash against Mexico.
“We are not surprised at all that Venezuela is playing this way because there are many players who are in Europe, who have been standing out,” said Mexico striker Peralta in a press conference.
“For us, it is important to ensure first place in the group on Monday because we know the capability of our opponents.”
“But in the Copa you have to beat whoever is in front of you and the team is very committed and aware of what is needed,” he concluded.
History holds Mexico as the favourites in Monday’s clash as Venezuela have never won against El Tri in the last 11 meetings.
However Venezuela striker Josef Martinez feels that the team has enough potential to beat any side in the world.
“We are going to play toe-to-toe with anyone, we came here to leave the name of Venezuela up high,” said Martinez.
Team News
Mexico
Possible XI: Ochoa; Duenas, Araujo, Y. Corona, Moreno; Herrera, Marquez, Layun; Jimenez, Hernandez, J. Corona
Venezuela
Possible XI: Hernandez; Rosales, Angel, Vizcarrondo, Feltscher; Guerra, Rincon, Figuera, Penaranda; Rondon, Martinez