Confederations Cup 2013: Japan’s Keys to Upsetting Mexico

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: June 22, 2013

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Both Japan and Mexico have nothing to play for but pride at this point. 

Each team has yet to register a point in the 2013 Confederations Cup, not to mention that each side will not be making the semifinals of the tournament this year.

Japan and Mexico have both lost to top Group A teams Brazil and Italy. Japan has lost by a combined four goals, while Mexico has lost by a combined three tallies.

Japan—the world No. 32, according to FIFA—is the underdog headed into the matchup in Belo Horizonte. World No. 17 (and sliding) Mexico will try to finally come away with a win after a disappointing tournament thus far.

Here is what Japan must do to upset Mexico on Saturday.

 

Defense



While Mexico is the favorite, it wouldn't be a surprise if Japan won this match. Mexico, despite boasting Javier Hernandez, has been highly disappointing on offense, posting just one goal in two Confederations Cup matches (including a shutout against Brazil on Wednesday).

Japan ended up allowing four goals against Italy in a thriller on Wednesday. That was after allowing three goals against Brazil to start off the tournament.

Japan's offense came to play against Italy—with Keisuke Honda, Shinji Kagawa and Shinji Okazaki each scoring—but the Japanese also need to play defense. While the side has obviously been outclassed by Brazil and Italy, it has an opportunity against a reeling Mexican offense to emerge victorious.

 

Score Early



Japan put a whole lot of pressure on Italy on Wednesday, with two goals in the first 35 minutes. While Italy ultimately came back to win, it will be much tougher for Mexico to rebound if the ailing side finds itself in a quick hole.

Japan and Mexico each have a shot of winning on Saturday—the team that strikes first could end up winning the match. You are talki...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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