Canada ready to embarrass Mexico and take their Nations League spot | OneFootball

The Concacaf Nations League is entering its most decisive stage, and the clash between Canada and Mexico is set to be a fiery encounter. Both of these teams have been rewriting the soccer script of the region in recent years. On one hand, a rising Canada, looking to consolidate its strength under Jesse Marsch. On the one hand, a United States team hungry for a first title and eager to overcome its recent disappointments under Bob Bradley. On the other, a Mexico team desperate to regain its identity and end its recent disappointments under Javier Aguirre. But which of these two giants will prevail and reach the final? Let's analyze.

The quest for a first title and the shadow of the United States

Neither Mexico nor Canada has previously won the Concacaf Nations League. Mexico came close twice but fell to the United States, finishing as runner-up on both instances. Canada did reach the final in 2023, only to have their aspirations crushed by the USMNT. Both teams now have an excellent opportunity to make history, and it starts with a head-to-head matchup full of rivalry.

Their last four encounters spell the story of even contest: a win apiece and two draws. And for a twist, their last meeting, a friendly in September 2024, was a goalless draw. It was as if both sides were saving the best for this very moment: a title-deciding encounter.

Mexico's tradition under threat and pressure to win

If any team is bearing the weight of expectations, it's Mexico. For so long, El Tri dominated Concacaf with an iron fist, but those days are now a memory. The last two Nations League finals were a wake-up call, the United States is now the team to beat. And if Mexico wants to get back to its reputation as a powerhouse, this is the time to prove it.

Their run has been fine so far. A gritty quarterfinal victory against Honduras, led by Raúl Jiménez and Henry Martín, took them to the semis. But Mexico knows that's not enough. They need a title. They need confidence restored. They need to make the world believe once more that El Tri remains the most feared team in Concacaf.

Aguirre has a mix of youth and experience at his disposal, with Santiago Giménez, Jorge Sánchez, and Édson Álvarez at the heart of things. But question marks remain. The team still lacks balance between attack and defense, and the pressure on the players could be telling.

Canada's renaissance continues or another letdown?

Canada, meanwhile, is on the upswing. Guided by Jesse Marsch, the team made a deep run in the 2024 Copa América, finishing fourth—the best finish by any Concacaf nation. That in itself was an indicator that Canada is no longer an underdog. They are here to compete.

Their 4-0 dismantling of Suriname in the quarterfinals was a showcase for their attacking abilities. Jonathan David, Alphonso Davies, and Jacob Shaffelburg were the standout performers, and they head into the Mexico match brimming with confidence. It's also worth noting that Davies and David have been in scintillating form in the UEFA Champions League, and their impact could turn out to be the difference-maker.

The big question for Canada is: Can they take the next step? In 2023, they reached the final and fell short. Now, in front of Mexico, they have another gilt-edged chance to prove that their rise is real and that they can at last get their hands on a significant trophy.

Who has the edge?

It's a difficult decision. Mexico has more tradition, experience, and depth in the squad. But Canada has youth, hunger, and game-changers who can flip a game on its head in an instant.

If reason rules, Mexico will dominate possession and dictate rhythm. But if Canada can assert its physicality and use speed to hurt El Tri on the counter, favouritism of El Tri will come crashing down.

One thing's for sure, this will be a heated, closely fought match with plenty at stake. And no matter who wins, the Concacaf Nations League final is shaping up to be one for the books.

Now, all that’s left is to wait. On March 20, at SoFi Stadium, the ball will roll, and history will be written. Will Canada shock the world, or will Mexico finally break its Nations League curse? We’re about to find out.