Mexico vs Russia - 2017 Confederations Cup Preview and Odds

Published on: 24/06/2017

Mexico vs Russia - 2017 Confederations Cup Preview and Odds

June 24, 2017 16:00pm - Kazan Arena

Confederations Cup - Group A

With Portugal likely to gain at least a point in the other Group A game (against New Zealand), this clash will feel more a cup contest as Mexico and Russia jostle for the remaining qualification spot. Mexico can progress with a point but the hosts will need to claim all three if they are to continue their quest for a home Confederations Cup triumph.

The Russians kicked off the tournament with a fairly straightforward win over New Zealand but fell 1-0 to Portugal in their next game. Both displays did little to convince observers that they are capable of going all the way in this event. However, a win here could give them a vital boost as they look to grow into the tournament just as Portugal did in Euro 2016.

A record of four wins in their last 17 internationals does not bode well for the Russians as they take on one of the tournament`s more tricky customers. With a clean injury slate, any changes to the Russian side will be purely tactical.

Meanwhile, Mexico will look to maintain their unbeaten record in this tournament while also booking their place in the semi-finals. A point would be enough to see them through but playing for a draw at this stage could be dangerous, so a positive approach can be expected.

The Mexicans showed some great team spirit to twice come from behind in the 2-2 draw against Portugal. They followed that up by overturning a 1-0 halftime deficit to claim a 2-1 victory in the game against New Zealand. As a result, they come into this game as group leaders thanks to their superior goal record.

Carlos Salcedo is set to miss out through injury, while Javier Hernandez and Carlos Vela can be expected to return after being left out of the game against New Zealand.

Recent form (All competitions)

Mexico: WDDWW

Portugal: LWDWD

Betting odds and tips

The group leaders have lost just two of their last 38 international matches and seem to find a way of getting the job done. If they head into this match aiming for the win, they should have the quality to get over the line. However, the Russians, backed by the home crowd, might just push them all the way. As a result, the draw looks like a decent bet.

You can back the Draw at 12/5 with Bet365.

By Neil Morris

Published on: 24/06/2017

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (24/06/2017 09:46:49) but are subject to change.