Mexico vs. Guyana: Sloppy Play Sign of Things to Come Against El Salvador

Mexico took care of business against Guyana, 3-1, but they are in trouble this week against El Salvador if they don't begin to mesh their talent quickly.

El Tri has a much tougher opponent in El Salvador next Tuesday. After a 2-2 tie against Costa Rica, it might not seem like their level of play is increasing for Mexico, but in World Cup Qualifying, there can be nothing taken for granted.

After taking care of Brazil 2-0 last week, Mexico certainly has momentum on their side. The win against Guyana is impressive from a qualifying standpoint but certainly wasn't the best soccer they've played as a team yet.

Guyana out-shot El Tri by 10 and had possession for 67 percent of the match to Mexico's 33. They made Mexico work for every goal they got. Call it inferior talent or late pushing at the end by Guyana, but Mexico had to grind for 90 minutes to pull out this win.

Led by Javier Hernandez and a slew of other talented players, this team should have swept the floor with Guyana. They not only have a two goal differential going into much tougher matchups against El Salvador, they also have an international friendly against USA and Costa Rica in the coming weeks.

They'll need a broader effort across the board to continue to run their bracket and qualify for the 2014 Cup. If not, don't be surprised if El Salvador manages a draw or a decent run differential in the contest. They are at home, Mexico is riding the Brazil high a little too much, and the WCQ factor will trump sloppy play any day of the week.

Mexico will be a heavy favorite next Tuesday in El Salvador. But like Denmark, don't be surprised if the underdog continues to jump up and strike when favorites least expect it.