World Cup qualifiers. Key CONCACAF Fixtures: Mexico vs USA

USA have notched their first victory of 2014 World Cup qualification CONCACAF zone fourth round by overcoming decent Costa Rica side 1-0 in the match that was played in awful conditions. Now USMNT has to confirm its ambitions of gaining the direct qualification in the World Cup by trying to outplay arguably the most talented Mexico national team of decade.

It is to be recalled that USA have managed to battle to their first ever away victory over Mexico seven months ago (notwithstanding that it was just a friendly game).

Recent USA form:

USA are currently occupying second place in Hexagonal with three points from two games. The win over Costa Rica has favourably influenced the dressing room atmosphere, which has been spoiled by the article with the quotes of USMNT football players, expressing the disagreement with some of Klinsmann’s decisions. The article was issued right before the clash with Costa Rica and fuelled the speculations about the likely dismissal of the German manager. The win over Mexico could prove that the crisis has passed.

USA team news:

Klinsmann is likely to stick to the team that secured 1-0 victory over Costa Rica. USMNT will miss their firm first-choice goalkeeper Tim Howard, who has suffered back injury, while Landon Donovan has taken a break from international football.

Recent Mexico form:

Mexico have drawn two back-to-back games played against Jamaica and Honduras and will be desperate to bounce back against the USMNT.

Mexico team news:

Both Maza Rodriguez and Torres Nilo have been suspended for yellow card accumulation, meaning Salcido is likely to move to his preferred position in the centre of defense and Torrado will be included into the first XI.

Here are other CONCACAF games to be played on Tuesday, March 27:

Costa Rica vs Jamaica
Panama vs Honduras