Mexico will host the Ivory Coast in a pivotal international friendly for Coach Jose de la Torre.
The match has no consequences on major tournament qualifications but is the first game for de la Torre since a poor performance at the Gold Cup last month. Mexico faltered twice against Panama and failed to defend its title. After the elimination, many called for the head of the coach, but Mexico's soccer federation opted to keep him in place.
"There were strong voices that weren't in agreement," federation President Justino Compean said in a news conference about keeping de la Torre. "But in the end they came together because we're united in the same objective, which is qualification."
Now he must start proving his worth and victory for the home fans over the African power would be a great way to get started.
Mexico's Recent Games
After losing twice against Brazil and Italy in the Confederations Cup, Mexico salvaged a win over Japan. However, the victory did not translate into success in the ensuing Gold Cup. Mexico lost 2-1 in its opener against Panama. The team managed a 2-0 win over Canada and a 1-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago, but was subsequently eliminated 2-1 by Panama in the semifinals.
Ivory Coast's Recent Games
Ivory Coast recently played two games against Nigeria. The squad lost 4-1 in its opening game but managed a 2-0 win in the return leg.
Prediction: Ivory Coast manages a shocking 2-1 win.
Start Time: 9 p.m. EST
The match will be televised on ESPN 2 and UniMas in the USA.