Mexico vs Nigeria: Why it is more than a friendly 

 

At the end of the 90 minutes, the exhibition between Nigeria and Mexico on paper will literally mean nothing. However, looking back at El Tri's start to 2013, and what lies after the game…there is a lot Mexico needs to accomplish in this match. Therefore, here are the three reasons this game is more than a friendly for Mexico.
 
1) The final tune up
 
After this match, Mexico will have no more friendlies. No more experiments. No more room for improvement, until they head into WCQ and then the Confederations cup. This game needs to be taken seriously, because Chepo has not found the answers he has been searching for so far. Mexico does not have to win, but finally finding an offensive spark could be enough to roll into June with bolstered spirits. 
 
2) Possible Confederations clash?
 
There are no 'gimmies' in a qualifiers or tournaments, but there is no reason to believe that Mexico and Nigeria cannot meet each other again. Whether it be a semifinal, third place match, or (dare I say) the final. Nigeria is arguably the best team in Africa, which means this friendly is a great time to match up, and get a feel on how Mexico fairs against them. Physical, quick, and experienced, Nigeria can take on the best. This friendly may be more crucial for El Tri down in the future…it could be the difference from advancing and heading home.
 
3) Nigeria's talent level makes it a perfect opponent
 
No disrespect to Mexico's CONCACAF foes, but Nigeria is currently better than Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Panama. The difficulty level for Mexico that Nigeria presents can be a huge help before June WCQ. Nigeria is more technical and poised than Jamaica (currently last place in WCQ), who will be Mexico's first match in June. If Mexico can manage to grab a victory on May 31, not only will they have broken the current 2013 curse, but there is no room for El Tri to feel they will have problems against Jamaica. CONCACAF World cup qualification is not a walk in the park, but Mexico is at the top of the region for a reason. It may just take an opponent like Nigeria to cause the spark. 
 
Mexico takes on Nigeria in Houston, Texas on May 31st. 
 
Vamos México!
 




http://www.panchovillasarmy.com/preview-mexico-v-nigeria-friendly/

Dat 1 no concern us