On Sunday, Mexico dropped five goals on El Salvador to take a joint lead atop Group A in the 2011 Gold Cup (Copa Oro). On Thursday, they face an arguably much easier opponent in Cuba. Benching their starters tonight is a no brainer, right? Not so fast.
Mexico Vs. Cuba, Gold Cup (Copa Oro) 2011, Group A: Preview, And A Look At Costa Rica Vs. El Salvador
While Mexico were able to find another gear and absolutely obliterate El Salvador in the second half of their game, the first half was just as bad as the second half was good. This Mexican team appeared to be one that had a fair bit of chemistry and understanding in their friendly matches leading up to the Gold Cup, but they looked like a team of 11 strangers in the opening 45 minutes of their Gold Cup campaign.
It's possible that it was a total outlier performance and that Jose Manuel 'Chepo' de la Torre now has his team focused, but it's also possible that they don't have enough time together as a squad to play a game with great fluidity and understanding against a team like Costa Rica or the United States.
More than likely, Mexico will opt for a mixed squad with some first team players and some bench players. After a long season with Manchester United, it would not be surprising to see Javier Hernandez benched in favor of Aldo de Nigris. Chicharito is Mexico's icon, superstar, and most importantly, their best striker. Having him tired or injured for the Costa Rica match would be a downright disaster. Israel Castro also played a long season for Pumas, and looked poor against El Salvador. It wouldn't be surprising to see Jesus Zavala get a look, as he was very good in his substitute appearance on Sunday.
First team or not, Mexico should beat Cuba. If they fail to, it would be...probably the biggest upset in the history of this competition.
Costa Rica Vs. El Salvador
Would the Ticos rest Bryan Ruiz in two straight games? After El Salvador’s performance against Mexico, quite possibly. With a big game against Mexico just four days away, it wouldn’t be a terrible idea. More than likely, he’ll get somewhere between 45 and 60 minutes as the Ticos absolutely roll over El Salvador. This should give both Costa Rica and Mexico six points, setting up a fantastic finale.
For more information on the Mexico Vs. Cuba game, the 2011 Gold Cup (Copa Oro), and Mexican football in general, check out SB Nation’s Mexican football blog FMF State Of Mind.
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