Brazil and Mexico both won their Group A opening matches at the World Cup, and these two countries are very familiar with each other. Both teams like to get after it, so this could be a thrilling start to the second volley of group-stage games at the World Cup.
World Cup Odds: Brazil -355, Mexico +985, Draw +465
Why Brazil Can Win
Brazil’s 3-1 win over Croatia was highlighted by the attacking play of the five-time World Cup winners. Neymar scored twice, but Oscar was the man of the match with some spectacular crosses and all-around play, and he even scored in injury time to cap a fine display. Hulk was industrious and while Fred will get some flack for going to ground easily to win a penalty, he still had a good game. Paulinho even got in on the action going forward and when Brazil gets into a rhythm, it is hard to stop them.
However, he might want to stay back a little more as Brazil’s defense wasn’t that great and the play that caused Marcelo to score an own goal was atrocious. Marcelo did play much better after that, but still, it was enough to worry Brazil supporters. That said, David Luiz had a very good game and showed why Paris Saint-Germain paid so much to get him from Chelsea.
Why Mexico Can Win
Mexico’s attackers are no joke either as Giovani Dos Santos and Oribe Peralta shone in a 1-0 win over Cameroon. Dos Santos probably should have had two goals and at least one was called back wrongly in a terrible rainstorm, but he can make Brazil’s defense pay, as can Peralta, who scored the match-winner in the 61st minute. The 5-3-2 formation now favored by Mexico paid dividends as they were able to dominate on the wings and keep Cameroon pinned back.
They might want to stay at home against Brazil, who is obviously much stronger than Cameroon and they will punish Mexico if they get too ahead of themselves. It will be interesting to see how much Mexico is willing to attack against Brazil.
Outlook
This will be the 39th meeting between these countries, with Brazil winning 22 times and earning 10 draws. Two of those matches have come in the World Cup as Brazil won 4-0 in 1950 and then 2-0 in 1962. The two most recently met at last summer’s Confederations Cup in Brazil, with the hosts winning 2-0 en route to taking the tournament.
Neymar scored in that game and Brazil’s starting 11 in that game also started the match against Croatia, so these players are familiar with each other. Mexico should look to stay back a bit more than they did against Cameroon, but they can still nick a goal against Brazil. However, the hosts showed their mettle by shaking off that own goal and they should be able to take this game and take a commanding lead at the top of Group A.
Pick: Brazil
