USMNT vs. Mexico: Top Storylines and Predictions for 2023 Friendly
In soccer, exhibitions matches are called friendlies. But there's never anything friendly about a meeting between the United States and Mexico.
So don't expect Wednesday's matchup to be any different.
The two countries meet at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona in the Allstate Continental Clásico on Wednesday (10 p.m. ET on TBS, HBO Max, Peacock, Telemundo, Universo).
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Below, we'll break down the top storylines and offer a prediction for the non-friendly, rivalry matchup.
Can the USMNT Keep the Streak Alive Against El Tri?
The Americans haven't lost in four straight matches against Mexico and have won three straight games against El Tri on U.S. soil.
And you can bet that—even in a friendly without a number of star players from either country participating—both sides will come out with something to prove.
Certainly the United States will want to extend its recent dominance against its neighbors to the south. Expect this one to be chippy.
Some Younger Players Should Get a Look
Because European clubs don't have to release players for friendlies during the season, the majority of both rosters is derived from North American clubs.
In total, 19 of the USMNT's 22 players are from Major League Soccer, while 21 of 23 of the Mexico roster play in Liga MX.
So this will be a chance for U.S. fans to potentially get eyes on young, up-and-coming prospects such as defenders Caleb Wiley and Joshua Wynder, forward Cade Cowell and midfielder Aidan Morris, among others.
And yes, players like Sergiño Dest, DeAndre Yedlin, Kellyn Acosta, Jordan Morris, Walker Zimmerman, Aaron Long and Matt Miazga should see the pitch. But a chance to see the future of the USMNT is enticing.
Another Look at Interim Manager Anthony Hudson
It's unclear if Anthony Hudson has any chance of taking over the manager duties for the USMNT on a full-time basis, but he'll have another chance to make his case on Wednesday.
More than likely, the U.S. would probably prefer to bring in a bigger name and more experienced option as the young and impressive core of the team hits its prime.
If Hudson can get this squad moving in a positive direction as that hiring process remains alive, though, he could make himself a more appealing candidate.
A CONCACAF Nations League Preview
Well, sort of.
When these two nations face off on June 15 in Las Vegas in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals, they'll have far more star power on display. Both rosters will probably look dramatically different.
So, this is a warm-up act for that game in the way that Insane Clown Posse would be a warm-up act for Paul McCartney—technically speaking, music would be played, but the main event is going to be something far different...and far better.
Prediction: USMNT wins, 2-0
Hey, anytime you can sneak in a "Dos a Cero" prediction against Mexico, you have to do it. Look for the United States, on home soil, to keep its hot streak alive against El Tri.
