Following up on Group C's last match day, we have the last game of the day between leaders Mexico and Venezuela who will fight for the top spot and attempt to avoid Argentina until the final. The Mexican National team has been undefeated for 21 games and counting, manager Juan Carlos Ororio will do everything in his power to keep that positive run going since he has never liked to speculate on any result despite already having the ticket to the next round.
Among the many rumors regarding Mexico's lineup, there is the one that suggests goalkeeper Jesus Corona will be on the starting XI but it hasn't been confirmed yet. America striker Oribe Peralta will very likely see minutes as well, but the real protagonist is without a doubt, Javier Chicharito Hernandez. The Bayer Leverkusen striker is just one goal away from Jared Borgetti's 46-goal record for Mexico, the team will play for him with the record within reach.
Peralta gave a press conference to analyze Venezuela before playing at NRG Stadium in Houston: "We are not surprised at all that Venezuela is playing this way because there are many players who are in Europe, who have been standing out. For us, it is important to ensure first place in the group on Monday, because we know the capability of our opponents. But in the Copa you have to beat whoever is in front of you and the team is very committed and aware of what is needed."
Peralta also said this about Osorio's unpredictability when it comes to choosing their starting XI: "We take it very well because you have to be 100 per cent for each game. Because you do not know when your moment will be, you have to give it your best shot when you have the chance. Ultimately, we are all here for what we have done and what we can give."
Possible lineups:
Mexico starting lineup (4-3-3 formation): Corona; Duenas, Marquez, Y. Corona, Moreno; Herrera, Guardado, Layun; Peralta, Hernandez, J. Corona.
Venezuela starting lineup (4-4-2 formation): Hernandez; Rosales, Angel, Vizcarrondo, Feltscher; Guerra, Rincon, Figuera, Penaranda; Rondón, Martinez.
Photo credit: Seleccion Mexicana