Mexico host Ecuador in the World Cup round of 32 at the Estadio Azteca. The home side topped Group A with three straight wins and nine points. They blanked Czechia 3-0 on June 25, edged South Korea 1-0 and beat South Africa 2-0. Ecuador advanced after a 2-1 win over Germany but also lost 0-1 to Ivory Coast and drew 0-0 with Curaçao.
Raúl Jiménez starts up front for Mexico and has looked dangerous lately. Ecuador will lean on Enner Valencia and Moisés Caicedo to create chances. Both teams report no injuries or suspensions ahead of kickoff.
The predicted lineups show Mexico with Rangel behind Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez and Gallardo while Ecuador line up Galindez with Franco, Ordonez, Pacho and Hincapie at the back. And the altitude at Azteca adds another layer for the visitors to handle.
Their most recent clash ended 1-1 in a friendly last October. This time the stakes are higher and Mexico carry the stronger recent run. Ecuador's result against Germany stands out but their other group games were far less convincing.
Mexico should control territory early and use the crowd to their advantage. Jiménez has the quality to punish any lapses at the back. Ecuador will need to stay compact if they want to nick a result on the counter.
Expect the home side to edge a tight contest here.
Recommended Bets
Mexico to win @1.95 — strong group stage form and home advantage at altitude.
Under 2.5 goals @1.85 — Mexico kept three clean sheets in the group stage.
Raúl Jiménez anytime goalscorer @3.40 — expected starter in strong recent form at home.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
