USA-Mexico Tonight at 10 PM (USMNT)
After tonight’s match between USA and Mexico, only one team will be closer to the verge of qualifying for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The final three matches of the Octagonal campaign kickoff tonight as the U.S. Men's National Team travels to Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, Mexico.
Why is this match so important?
Currently, the USMNT is in a position to secure its spot for this year’s World Cup. Automatic bids come with a top-three finish, and the U.S. is in second with 21 points from its 11 matches previously played. Securing a win won’t come easy, though, as Mexico is in the same position. They’re sitting just behind the U.S. in third place because of a goal differential tiebreaker. A win for either team will place them in closer arms reach of World Cup qualifications.
The USMNT will also face another challenge: competing in Mexico City. The USMNT has never won at Mexico for World Cup qualifications, and a heavy El Tri fan base may certainly test USA’s resolve. Injuries on the USMNT will push the team’s strength further. Key players out for tonight’s match include midfielder Weston McKennie, attacker Brenden Aaronson, and fullback Sergiño Dest.
The rivalry’s history dates back to 1974 when the USMNT first played in Mexico. Then, the U.S. lost World Cup qualifiers 3-1. Throughout the years, the USA-Mexico rivalry has existed. However, it wasn’t until the USMNT beat Mexico during the 2002 World Cup qualifying round that revamped the competition.
After two decades, the rivalry has reignited once more.
How and Where to Watch the Game
Thursday, March 24, at 10 p.m. (ET)
Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico
Paramount+, UniMas, TUDN, CBS Sports Network