El Tri Returns: Mexico Prepares for Japan Challenge in World Cup Warm-Up

Fresh off their triumph in the Gold Cup final against arch-rivals USMNT, Mexico’s national team, El Tri, is set to face Japan in a highly anticipated friendly match. This encounter marks the first of two crucial warm-up games on U.S. soil this month as Mexico ramps up preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will co-host the opening game.

A Year of Resurgence for El Tri

The past year has been a period of remarkable turnaround for Mexico. Under the astute leadership of manager Javier Aguirre, who returned to the helm a year ago amidst a deep crisis, El Tri has transformed into the undisputed kings of Concacaf. Their impressive silverware haul includes both the Nations League and the Gold Cup, achievements that have rekindled optimism among fans and pundits alike.

While their brand of soccer might not always be described as spectacular, the results speak for themselves. Aguirre’s pragmatic approach has instilled a newfound resilience and tactical discipline, making Mexico a formidable opponent. This match against Japan provides an invaluable opportunity for Aguirre to fine-tune his squad and assess player readiness ahead of next summer’s global showpiece.

Japan: A Formidable Test

Japan, under manager Hajime Moriyasu, also boasts a strong squad, having already secured their qualification for the World Cup. Their roster is brimming with European-based talent, promising a challenging and unpredictable encounter. The rarity of matches between these two nations adds an extra layer of intrigue, suggesting a game filled with action and tactical battles.

Match Details: Kick-Off and Venue

• Location: Oakland, California
• Stadium: Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
• Date: Saturday, September 6
• Kick-off Time: 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Mexico has held the upper hand in clashes against Japan:

• Mexico Wins: 2
• Japan Wins: 0
• Draws: 0
• Last Meeting: Mexico 2–0 Japan (November 17, 2020) – International Friendlies

Current Form (All Competitions)

Mexico:

• USMNT 1–2 Mexico – 7/6/25
• Mexico 1–0 Honduras – 7/2/25
• Mexico 2–0 Saudi Arabia – 6/28/25
• Mexico 0–0 Costa Rica – 6/22/25
• Suriname 0–2 Mexico – 6/18/25

Japan:

• Japan 6–0 Indonesia – 6/10/25
• Australia 1–0 Japan – 6/5/25
• Japan 0–0 Saudi Arabia – 3/25/25
• Japan 2–0 Bahrain – 3/20/25
• China 1–3 Japan – 11/19/24

How to Watch Mexico vs. Japan

United States:

TUDN, Univision, FOX Deportes, fuboTV, ViX

Mexico:

TUDN, Canal 5, Azteca 7, ViX, Amazon Prime Video

Mexico Team News: Familiar Faces and Key Returns

Manager Javier Aguirre is expected to field a lineup very similar to the one that secured the Gold Cup against the USMNT. This indicates that Aguirre has a clear vision for the core of his World Cup XI.

• Absence: Gilberto Mora, the breakout star of the Gold Cup, will miss these friendlies as he prepares for the U-20 FIFA World Cup. Luis Chávez remains sidelined due to an ACL injury.
• Midfield Opportunity: Orbelín Pineda could see extended minutes in midfield, stepping in for the injured Chávez.
• Wing Reinforcements: The return of Hirving “Chucky” Lozano and Diego Lainez after extended absences is a significant boost. Both players will be keen to impress and secure their spots for the World Cup, addressing Mexico’s recent lack of firepower on the wings.
• Leading the Line: Raúl Jiménez is expected to lead the attack, supported by Liga MX stars Alexis Vega and Roberto Alvarado on the flanks, a combination that has proven effective throughout 2025.

Mexico Predicted Lineup vs. Japan (4-2-3-1):

Malagón; Huescas, Montes, Vásquez, Gallardo; Álvarez, Ruíz, Alvarado, Pineda, Vega; Jiménez

Japan Team News: European Talent on Display

Japan arrives on U.S. soil with a highly competitive squad, featuring several key players from top European leagues:

• Midfield Anchor: Liverpool’s Wataru Endo will captain the side and anchor the midfield, alongside Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo, who has been deployed in a deeper role for the national team recently.
• Wingback Threat: Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma is expected to feature as a left wingback, a role he has excelled in for Japan.
• Attack: Eintracht Frankfurt’s Ritsu Doan, enjoying a stellar start to the Bundesliga season, will partner former Liverpool player Takumi Minamino in attack.
• Injury Concern: Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka did not travel with the team due to an injury sustained in the Premier League.

Japan Predicted Lineup vs. Mexico (3-4-2-1):

Susuki; Seko, Itakura, Watanabe; Ito, Endo, Kubo, Mitoma; Doan, Minamino; Maeda

Score Prediction: Mexico’s Defensive Grit to Prevail

Under Aguirre, Mexico has developed into a well-organized defensive unit that capitalizes on its scoring opportunities. While Japan’s midfield talent might allow them to dominate possession, El Tri’s resolute defense has proven to be a tough nut to crack throughout the year. Mexico might create fewer chances, but the in-form Raúl Jiménez, who consistently elevates his game for the national team, is expected to continue his strong run and guide Mexico to a narrow victory.

Score Prediction: Mexico 2–1 Japan