Mexico's Under-23 Squad to Face Internacional and River Plate in January Friendlies in Brazil

The Mexican national team is set to face off against Brazilian powerhouse Internacional and Argentine giants River Plate during their January camp, marking a departure from the usual international friendly format. This unique opportunity arises due to the ongoing break in the Brazilian and Argentine leagues, allowing the Mexican squad to engage in these high-profile matches as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, under the guidance of head coach Javier Aguirre.

Embracing the January Camp Tradition

While the United States men's national team has long held January camps, this year, they are joined by other Concacaf nations keen to seize the opportunity presented by the league break in the Americas. Despite Liga MX being in session, the Mexican national team is leveraging its deeper roster to include younger players in the camp, akin to the approach taken by MLS teams.

Match Details

The highly anticipated match against Internacional is scheduled to take place on January 16, at 7 p.m. ET at the Estadio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre, Brazil, providing fans with the chance to witness this exciting clash live via streaming on Fubo.

Making an Impression: Mexico's Roster

Head coach Javier Aguirre has assembled a promising roster for the matches, featuring a mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Notable inclusions in the lineup are Raul Rangel from Chivas, Jesus Gallardo from Toluca, Luis Romo from Cruz Azul, and Guillermo Martinez from Pumas, among others. This diverse selection aims to showcase the depth and potential of the emerging talents within the Mexican national team.

Internacional's Motivation

For Internacional, the match presents an opportune moment to integrate new signings and assess their squad ahead of a demanding season. While facing a lesser-known opponent like Mexico may seem unconventional as a preseason kickoff, it offers the Brazilian side a chance to gauge their effectiveness against unfamiliar players who are equally vying for a spot in their respective national teams. This added competitive edge is expected to heighten the intensity of the encounter, providing an engaging spectacle for fans.

Looking Ahead

As the Mexican national team embarks on this unique journey, the matches against Internacional and River Plate hold significant implications for their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. The opportunity to compete against distinguished clubs from Brazil and Argentina not only serves as a test for the younger players but also allows the coaching staff to evaluate the potential and adaptability of the squad in high-pressure situations.