Brazil vs. Mexico: Bold Predictions for Epic Confederations Cup Match

There's no love lost between Mexico and Brazil entering Wednesday's showdown in the Confederations Cup. Mexico defeated Brazil in the 2012 Olympic Games to win the gold medal, shocking the heavily favored South American squad.

Brazil have long been one of the most feared national teams in the world, with seven World Cup finals appearances and five titles. 

Mexico, on the other hand, have never once been to a final—let alone sniffed a victory.

Therefore, when Mexico defeated Brazil with a 2-1 win in the gold-medal round in London, it was a truly stunning loss for the favored Brazilians.

Brazil will be looking for some sweet revenge on Wednesday in front of its home crowd at Castelão when the match kicks off at 3 p.m. ET.

If Mexico loses this match, it would be doomed to an early exit. If Brazil wins, it is assured a second-round berth with a game to spare. 

Here are a few bold predictions for the epic rematch. 

Mexico Will Go on the Offensive Early

In an effort to keep Brazil from opening up a big lead early, Mexico will mount an offensive campaign to start the match. 

It's not something Mexico have done this past year, having failed to score a single goal in the first 15 minutes of play in any game in the past 12 months, according to ESPN.com's Tom Marshall. 

But after losing a game already and facing a superior team, José Manuel de la Torre will urge his men to press the attack early.

Falling into a hole against Brazil early in the match would be a death sentence for Mexico. The only way ensure that doesn't happen is by forcing Brazil to react, rather than reacting to Brazil's explosive offensive attack.

Neymar and Fred Will Combine for the Game's First Goal

Despite Mexico's attempt at scoring early, Brazil will get on the board first.

Neymar and Fred are a dynamic duo capable of scoring at any time. Neymar's ability to dribble into traffic and pass to open teammates is world-class, and Fred has proven to be a brilliant striker.

As Brazil's defense locks down Mexico's attempts to score, fast-break opportunities will present a perfect chance for these stars to put Brazil up in the first half.

Just like that, Mexico's chances of moving on in this tournament will be one step further from reality.

Brazil Will Dominate the Second Half

Only Brazil could be criticized for lackluster play after winning 3-0 over Japan in the first contest. The crowd groaned with disappointment whenever the team failed to capitalize on its opportunities.

This is a team with the highest expectations, given the level of talent on the squad, and nothing other than exceptional play will keep fans and the media happy.

Rest assured, the hometown fans will accept nothing less, and Brazil will give them what they seek. Every player will sell out in this match, and in the end, Mexico will be sent packing with a convincing loss. 

Prediction: Brazil win 4-0

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