It was tougher than expected to see off Honduras in their last match but El Tri have set themselves up to only need a point to advance to the World Cup, less if the United States wins their math against Costa Rica. But for a Mexico team on the verge of making the biggest stage in soccer, it has been more of a struggle than usual for Tata Martino. Mexico has an active streak of making the World Cup seven times that will likely become eight and while they've made it out of the group stage all seven times, El Tri hasn't made it past the round of 16 since the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
Add to that the fact that they could finish third in the Octagonal due to the rise of Canada and the United States and that they've lost to the USMNT in both the Gold Cup and Nations league finals, and it's clear why Martino's reign is in question despite likely making the World Cup. Mexico has struggled away from home and has more questions than answers at this stage. But the good news is that they will have time to try and figure them out before hopefully heading to Qatar in November.
Here's our storylines, how you can watch the match and more:
How to watch and odds
- Date: Wednesday, March 30 | Time: 9:05 p.m
- Location: Estadio Azteca -- Mexico City, Mexico
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Mexico -850; Draw +600; El Salvador +2200 (via Caesars Sportsbook)
Storylines
Mexico: There's no better time to score some goals than now for Mexico as they've fallen out of second place due to goal difference. Only scoring four goals in their last five matches, El Tri has struggled to back their strong defensive performances in qualifying leading to more draws than they would like. Raul Jimenez hasn't been the same leading the line while the wingers have also disappointed. Can they get some form going in their final match?
El Salvador: One of the youngest teams in Concacaf, this qualifying cycle has been a success for El Salvador despite their place in the table. Their defense has been pretty good only allowing Canada and Costa Rica to score multiple goals this year as they've been competitive in each match played. Behind a pesky defense, this is a team on the rise in Concacaf and one that will want to go out on a high note by causing trouble at the Azteca for Mexico.
Prediction
Hirving Lozano finally shows up for Mexico to net a late winner after El Salvador puts up a strong fight. Pick: Mexico 1, El Salvador 0
