IT is a battle of two of the invited teams as Mexico and Jamaica square off in a Group B clash at the Copa America. Both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in the build-up to the tournament but the Mexicans often come out on top in this fixture and should claim the upper hand once again.
Mexico regularly get invited to the Copa America, although they were not a part of the last two editions. Still waiting for their first title, they boast a decent record in the competition having finished as runners up twice.
The Mexicans will be targeting another deep run in the competition, although their preparations have not been particularly smooth. Jaime Lozano’s men have won just two of their last five matches and were beaten 3-2 by Brazil in their final warm-up game.
This will be Jamaica’s third appearance at the Copa America having been invited for the 2015 and 2016 editions. They crashed out in the group stage on both occasions, failing to win a single match.
Unlike Mexico, Jamaica have looked confident in their build-up to the competitions, although they faced less fancied opponents. Helmir Hallgrimsson’s men have won their last three matches and triumphed 3-2 over Dominica in their final warm-up fixture.
How the bookies view it: Mexico still favourites
Despite the contrasting build-up to the competition, Mexico are still considered favourites among the bookies at 4/7 by Betfred. A victory for Jamaica is valued at 9/2 while a draw is set at odds of 5/2.
Head to head: Mexico always on top
Mexico have a 24-4 advantage with five draws from 33 previous matches against Jamaica. The most recent meeting was a CONCACAF Gold Cup clash last year which ended 3-0 in favour of the Mexicans.
Players to watch: Gimenez to shine
Santiago Gimenez is coming off a fine season with ditch side Feyenoord and will be keen to carry that form into the national team. The striker will be the one to watch for Mexico and is priced at 13/8 by Betfred to find the net.
Shamar Nicholson has impressed in recent times, scoring three goals in his last two international appearances. The forward could be worth keeping an eye on for Jamaica and is priced at 100/30 by Betfred to find the net on Sunday.
Probable line-ups
Santiago Gimenez is likely to lead the line for Mexico with Carlos Antuna providing support. Edson Alvarez is expected to feature in midfield.
Shamar Nicholson is expected to start in attack for Jamaica alongside Michail Antonio. Bobby Decordova-Reid is also in line to feature on Sunday.
Mexico: Gonzalez, Arteaga, Vazquez, Orozco, Reyes, Alvarez, Rome, Rodriguez, Antuna, Quinones, Gimenez
Jamaica: Blake, Lembiska, Bernard, King, Leigh, Anderson, Reid, Palmer, Dixon, Antonio, Nicholson
Anything else catch the eye?
Mexico and Jamaica both saw over 3.5 goals in their previous fixtures and a similar outcome is priced at 3/1 by Betfred. Over 2.5 goals could also be considered at 6/5 while Betfred is also offering 11/10 on both teams to score.
Given the minimal odds for a straight Mexico victory, a win and over 2.5 goals could be considered at 9/5 with Betfred.
This Copa America match between Mexico and Jamaica will be played on Jun 23, 2024 and kick off at 02:00. Check below for our tipsters best Mexico vs Jamaica prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
