The Mexico national soccer team is set to face Ghana in an international friendly as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. This match will take place on Friday, May 22, in Puebla, Mexico, at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc. The encounter marks a critical point in Mexico’s buildup towards the tournament, with head coach Javier Aguirre leading a squad that predominantly includes players from Liga MX.
Mexico’s Preparation for the World Cup
Mexico’s camp began on May 6, comprising 20 players primarily from Liga MX. The timing coincided with the Liga MX playoffs, presenting challenges for Aguirre, who has spent the last two weeks training this group. Key international players, including captain Edson Álvarez and goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, are gradually joining the camp as the team gears up for its World Cup debut against South Africa on June 11.
Recent Form and Statistics
- Mexico is unbeaten in five consecutive matches leading to the World Cup.
- Ghana has struggled, losing five straight games since qualifying for the World Cup.
- Mexico has not lost at home in nearly eight years, with their last defeat occurring in 2018.
This match against Ghana is one of the final two opportunities for players to secure a spot on Mexico’s 26-man World Cup roster. Aguirre will utilize this friendly to evaluate fringe players as the team prepares for further international fixtures, including a subsequent match against Australia.
Ghana’s Squad Composition
In contrast, Ghana’s roster for this match features primarily local league players and U-23 talents. Many of its main stars, including Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus, are still engaged in club competitions. Newly appointed manager Carlos Queiroz is making his debut with a significantly altered squad due to these absences.
Predicted Lineups
Mexico’s lineup is expected to retain a 4-3-3 formation. Key players such as Edson Álvarez will look to regain fitness and rhythm following a brief injury absence. The predicted lineup comprises:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Rangel |
| Defender | Sánchez, Reyes, Montes, Gallardo |
| Midfielder | Gutiérrez, Álvarez, Mora |
| Forward | Alvarado, González, Vega |
Ghana is expected to adopt a 4-1-4-1 formation under Queiroz, featuring several youth prospects. The anticipated lineup includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Asare |
| Defender | Oppong, Simpson, Dacosta, Yegbe |
| Midfielder | Agyei, Rak-Sakyi, Ashimeru, Adams, Afena-Gyan |
| Forward | Afriye |
Kick-off Information
The Mexico vs. Ghana match is scheduled for:
- Date: Friday, May 22
- Kick-off Time: 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT
- Location: Estadio Cuauhtémoc, Puebla, Mexico
Fans in the United States can watch the match on channels such as TUDN USA, Univision, and FOX Deportes. In Mexico, coverage will be provided by Canal 5, Azteca 7, and TUDN.
As the pre-tournament friendlies unfold, both teams will be keen to fine-tune their strategies and solidify their rosters ahead of the World Cup. The encounter promises to be a competitive match as both squads vie to establish momentum.
