Mexico v Uruguay Betting Preview

Written by James Beckett Friday, 18 June 2010 15:19

Betting Odds

Mexico take on Uruguay in Rustenburg with both sides knowing a draw will be enough to see them qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup. But don't expect both sides to be betting for a draw, as finishing second in Group A will probably mean a clash with South American giants Argentina.


If the match was to end in a draw, it would be Mexico that would take on Argentina due to Uruguay's superior goal difference, so expect Javier Aguirre's side to be the team with more of an incentive to win the game.


Mexico were excellent against France, and were unlucky to only draw their opening game with hosts South Africa. Their fearless attacking play, with runners from deep has been a breath of fresh air in an otherwise mundane World Cup, and if they play with the same freedom against Uruguay, there should be no reason why they can't pip the South American's to top spot in Group A.


New Manchester United signing Javier Hernandez opened the scoring against the French, and he could get his first start of the tournament in favour of Arsenal forward Carlos Vela, while Cuauhtemoc Blanco will once again be pushing for a start after another impressive substitute display which included a goal from the penalty spot.

Elsewhere Uruguay will have to keep an eye out for pacey winger Pablo Barrera who showed exceptional pace in winning the penalty. Barrera also came on as a substitute during the win over France, and he could be another player set for a start.


Uruguay on the other hand did something Mexico couldn't do, and produced a very effective display against the host nation. In Diego Forlan, Uruguay have a striker who could test any defenders, and after seeing the Mexicans exposed at the back against South Africa, Forlan may have fancy his chances of adding to his two goals so far this World Cup.


Forlan played just behind the strike force of Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani against Bafana Bafana, but could be set for a more advanced role if coach Oscar Tabarez opts to play it safe and settle for a draw. This may mean a recall for former Newcastle United midfielder Ignacio González, and Uruguay will also have midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro available again, after he missed the game with South Africa through suspension.


While it doesn't seem likely that either team will play for the draw, given the situation it does seem to be the most likely option. Subconsciously both sides will know it it more important not to lose, then it is to win, and this could make for a negative game in Rustenburg.


This might not be the game to watch as both sides will be that worried about losing the game, and you feel that both teams may set out to avoid defeat. But if Aguirre decides to be a bit adventurous, you feel that his side just have the edge in terms of quality, however whether he will give it a go is another question entirely.

Mexico give it a go early on, but as the game remains goalless going in to the last 30 minutes, neither team want to lose, and both settle for a draw which sees them qualify for the last 16.

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