Beating the USMNT won't be easy for Mexico, but before El Tri enters the pitch, they'll have to forget all about their recent performances, which include a 7-0 blowout against Chile that piled up an enormous amount of pressure on the team.
Speaking to FIFA.com, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa didn't hold back about the feelings El Tri's players harbour following that baffling loss, and how most of his team-mates will have to work overtime to shine with Mexico in the WC Qualifier next Friday.
"We know that the team's current situation is not as good as before, especially after that Copa América game. We're a little tense, but we also know that the Qualifiers are a whole different ballgame. We have shown strength in the Qualifiers and we have to try and keep it that way," Ochoa stated.
Ochoa was one of the best players for El Tri during the 2014 World Cup, but has failed to impress in La Liga with Málaga and Granada.
Granada's goalkeeper also admitted that the game against Chile shouldn't be overanalyzed, since some experts and fans demand coach Juan Carlos Osorio's sacking after that beating.
"It’s not easy to implement processes in Mexico. It’s very hard to get continuity, and even more so a calm atmosphere, when you’re together for such short periods. These are so important for a national team. The media in this country are very critical – that’s the way it is," Ochoa added.
This will be the team's first meeting in over a year, following Mexico's 3-2 overtime win in the FIFA Confederations Cup play-off. Regardless of that positive result, the shot-stopper ruled out any feelings of excessive confidence before walking into Mapfre Stadium next Friday.
"It’s the most important game for Mexico in this region, and a real CONCACAF highlight. It’s special for the people of Mexico and the USA, as well as our compatriots living there. What better way to start the campaign that with a game of this magnitude, and by winning it of course," the goalkeeper concluded.
Mexico has lost four straight games against the USMNT when playing the World Cup Qualifiers in Columbus. Some experts believe that a good performance by Ochoa could change that on Friday.
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