Mexico take on Iceland in California later this week, with both sides stepping up preparations for this summer’s World Cup Finals in Russia. The duo have both lost just one of their last six matches in all competitions, meaning that many are predicting a close encounter at the Levi’s Stadium come Saturday morning.
International Friendly – Levi’s Stadium, California – Saturday 24th March – 02:30 UK Time
Mexico vs Iceland Match Preview
Central American nation Mexico go head-to-head with Iceland this weekend, with both sides having qualified for this summer’s World Cup with relative ease. Mexico would have been the strong favourites for an encounter between the two sides just a matter of years ago, however Iceland’s exploits of late mean that they stand a good chance of coming out on top. However, with the odds on the match being closer than many would perhaps expect, those still unsure of who to back ahead of kick-off should be sure to check out our top betting tip below. However, let’s first take a closer look at the two teams, starting with the home side.
Mexico Team News & Form
Mexico boss Juan Carlos Osorio has named a strong playing squad for this clash, with West Ham striker Javier Hernandez set to provide a significant goalscoring threat for the Central American’s. Elsewhere, PSV winger Hirving Lozano has impressed since his move to Europe, while Carlos Vela, Hector Herrera and Raul Jiminez are likely to look to help Mexico dominate this weekend. Meanwhile, former USA youth international Jonathan Gonzalez could earn just a second cap on Saturday morning.
Iceland Team News & Form
Everton midfielder Gyfil Sigurdsson will miss the clash with Mexico due to injury, however he should be fit for the World Cup later this year. However, English based duo Aron Gunnarsson and Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson, who play for Cardiff City and Burnley respectively, while Udinese’s Emil Hallfreðsson is another high-profile addition. Iceland come into the match off the back of 4-1 win over Indonesia.
Mexico vs IcelandHead to Head
The two nations have met just three times in the past, with Iceland still searching for a first win against Mexico. Mexico came out on top when the duo met back in February last year, with Alan Pulido scoring the only goal in a narrow victory. The two previous meetings between the two nations, coming in 2003 and 2010, both ended in goalless draws.
Mexico vs Iceland Betting Odds and Predictions
With the match being played in the US, neither side will have home advantage this weekend. However, their standing in the FIFA rankings and their recent form means that it comes as little surprise that it is Mexico who are the favourites for victory with the majority of major online bookmakers. The Central American’s can be backed for victory at best odds of 8/11 with bookmaker Ladbrokes, while those looking to bet on a success for Iceland can get a price of 9/2 on the same platform. Meanwhile, a draw between the two is available at odds of 23/10 with Betbright.
Mexico vs Iceland Betting Tip
However, our top betting tip for the match is to bet on both teams to score during the 90 minutes in the US this weekend, with odds of 11/10 available at William Hill.