Mexico vs. Panama: Key Issues That Will Shape International Friendly
Mexico defeated Honduras on home soil in their last outing. The team worked well, even better than in its previous games. Can the players keep up the momentum when they face Panama at Estadio Corregidora in Queretaro?
Miguel Herrera has stood next to some players, giving them confidence. Guillermo Ochoa and Javier Hernandez are great examples of this; both have shown that the coach didn't make a mistake selecting them in his latest squad.
Now represents a fantastic opportunity to try the talented players who have little or no experience with the national team.
Herrera has a great pool of footballers, and if he finds the way to combine and use them in the right way, Mexico could achieve great things.
Let's take a look at the key issues that will shape El Tri's game versus Panama.
Should Oribe Peralta Start?
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Oribe Peralta hasn't put the ball away with El Tri since his goal against Cameroon at the World Cup in June.
Peralta has made six appearances for Mexico since that game but hasn't found the way to beat the goalkeeper.
This doesn't mean he is useless; El Hermoso has the ability to work in tight spaces and create opportunities for his teammates.
However, Miguel Herrera has other options, such as Javier Orozco and Erick Torres. Both have produced good performances with their clubs this season.
Orozco is Santos Laguna's top scorer this season, with five goals to his name so far. Meanwhile, Torres has put the ball away 22 times in 42 appearances with Chivas USA, as per MLSSoccer.com.
It would be good for Herrera to try a new partnership up top.
Can Miguel Layun Keep Up the Pace?
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Miguel Herrera has made clear that Miguel Layun is his first option when it comes to the left flank.
Since El Piojo took over, the America defender has been called-up 16 times. Beyond his defensive duties, he offers good support in attack, and he has scored three times with El Tri, all of the goals coming from outside the box.
His success has gone beyond El Tri. With Las Aguilas, he has taken advantage of his flexibility. He can play as a defender or as midfielder, without losing his technique and speed.
The only question here is, can he can keep it up? Right now, he doesn't have an understudy—Herrera didn't call-up Miguel Ponce and Jorge Torres Nilo is injured again.
Who Should Start in Central Midfield?
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Antonio Rios has proven his worth in the absence of Jose Juan Vazquez.
However, Miguel Herrera also capped Javier Guemez, who debuted in the game against Honduras, playing 24 minutes in the second half.
Guemez is a 22-year-old who has been wearing Tijuana's jersey since the 2013 Apertura. His defensive skills are great.
After 12 matches of the 2014 Apertura, he has made 24 clearances, 17 interceptions and four blocks. His average passing accuracy is 84 percent, and he has created two goalscoring opportunities, including one assist, per Squawka.
Central midfield is a key position in Herrera's 3-5-2 formation, and Guemez has the ability to be a fantastic addition.
Marco Fabian or Alfonso Gonzalez?
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Marco Fabian hasn't been consistent with Mexico. Despite assisting Oswaldo Alanis in the game against Honduras, he is far from showing the level he showed with the U23 squad during 2012.
Fabian hasn't scored for Cruz Azul this season, and he missed the derby against America due to his poor performances.
On the other hand, Alfonso Gonzalez is going through a fantastic moment. With four goals, the 20-year-old is Atlas' top scorer this season.
He is superb in the air and has a lethal left foot. His speed and creativity make him an awesome asset down the left.
Should Alfredo Talavera Get a Chance?
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Alfredo Talavera has been superb with Toluca this season. In the 2014 Apertura, he has appeared 11 times and has secured four clean sheets.
Talavera has conceded 0.91 goals per game and registers 2.60 saves per goal, according to Squawka.
He hasn't had a walk in the park with Mexico, but this could be his chance to prove he is ready to give Guillermo Ochoa a run for the starting position.
It will be a tough task for the Toluca 'keeper, especially since Ochoa hasn't faltered, despite not getting playing time with Malaga.
Plus, Ochoa continues to lead and organize the defense correctly.
All stats appear courtesy of FEMEXFUT, unless otherwise noted.
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