By Mexico, the reigning CONCACAF Gold Cup champions, are set to compete in Copa America 2024 with a revamped and youthful squad. Manager Jaime Lozano has made bold decisions in his team selection, focusing on building for the future as El Tri aims for success in both the tournament and the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
In a surprising move, Lozano has omitted several veteran players from the 26-man squad, including Guillermo Ochoa, Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, Raul Jimenez, and Henry Martin. This decision underscores the manager’s commitment to developing a new core of players for the national team.
The squad features nine players aged 24 or younger, with rising star Santiago Gimenez of Feyenoord leading the attack. Gimenez, considered Mexico’s most exciting and dangerous goalscorer, will be crucial to the team’s success in the tournament.
Mexico’s recent performances have been a mix of highs and lows, from their group stage exit in the 2022 World Cup to winning the Gold Cup in 2023, followed by a loss in the CONCACAF Nations League final earlier this year. Copa America 2024 presents an opportunity for redemption and to showcase the potential of their young talent.
El Tri’s Group B fixtures include matches against Jamaica (June 22), Venezuela (June 26), and Ecuador (June 30). Despite recent setbacks, Mexico is favored to top their group, with their toughest challenge likely coming from Ecuador in the final group stage match.
Key players to watch include Edson Alvarez (West Ham United), Luis Chavez (Dinamo Moscow), and Julian Quinones (Club America), alongside the aforementioned Gimenez. These players will be crucial in implementing Lozano’s vision for a more dynamic and forward-thinking Mexican side.
If Mexico performs as expected and wins Group B, they could face the runners-up of Group A, potentially Chile or Canada, in the quarter-finals. However, a second-place finish in the group could lead to a challenging matchup against tournament favorites Argentina.
As Mexico embarks on this new chapter with a blend of youth and experience, all eyes will be on how this rejuvenated squad performs on the continental stage. Copa America 2024 will not only be a test of Mexico’s current capabilities but also a glimpse into the future of El Tri as they build towards the 2026 World Cup.
