Resortera Wave: What's next after El Tri's win over Honduras?
Oscar and I take a look into what needs to improve in Jimmy Lozano's Mexico national team if it plans to have a good 2024.
When I saw Luis Chávez score another free-kick goal, my mind went back to that Saudi Arabia game. Total desperation, unrelenting to the idea of another frustrating ending.
We know how that ended and what ensued afterward. Feud for the power over the national teams has never been more visible. This feud, with clear sides and competitors, is detrimental for the well-being of Mexico's national teams.
The inside wars, that have been present throughout 2023, almost cost a direct Copa América ticket. México hosted their last game at Estadio Azteca until 2026, with the fear of losing running through their spine.
They won 2-0 (4-2 in penalties). El Tri evaded catastrophe for now. What's ahead continues to be foggy. Although Jimmy Lozano has been nothing but a likable guy, we can't ignore that he's learning on the job as México senior manager. His coaching staff is also on the same boat. Since the moment they took over in the Gold Cup, they've enjoyed every second of it, and that's visible. It's like a ray of hope, as the inside wars pick up in flames.
Good for Malagón, for stepping up in his first real game as an El Tri starting goalkeeper. Like Rafa Márquez did many nights, he made Zamora, Michoacán proud on Tuesday night. The duo of Santi Giménez and Julián Quiñones deserves a proper look, more minutes. What they showed on Tuesday night is a good symptom heading into 2024.
Chucky Lozano is one of the most loved footballers in the last years. His presence is inevitable, but his influence on the field continues to be below par, almost detrimental to the overall display of the team. Lozano will continue to believe in him, even if the numbers aren't there to support his starting role.
- Nayib