World Cup Predictions & Tips | Round of 16: Mexico v England

Match 92: Mexico v England
Location: Mexico City Stadium
Time: 12:00pm, Monday 6 July
Head to Head: Mexico Wins (2), England Wins (6), Draws (1)

Key Stats

• Mexico is unbeaten in its last 12 games
• Mexico has record 10 clean sheets in its last 12 games
• Both Teams To Score has hit in only 3 of England’s last 14 games
• Harry Kane has scored 5 goals from 9 shots on target

Preview

Co-hosts Mexico are showing the entire world that beating them at home is a near impossible task. They extended their unbeaten run to 12 games and the 2-0 win over Ecuador was their 10th clean sheet during that stretch of games. Before we continue any further, Mexico’s record at this ground needs to be recognised. In 89 competitive matches at Mexico City Stadium (Azteca), their record reads 70 wins, 17 draws and only 2 losses. Further to that, they have not lost at this ground since 2013. Their exceptional defence has seen Under 2.5 goals hold in 7 of their last 9 which suggests England will have a tough time finding the back of the net.

There are several challenges that England must contend with. All four of their games have been played in the United States meaning this is the first time in the tournament that they will venture to Mexico. As we have seen with previous Mexican opponents and their history at this ground, acclimatisation will be a factor. They were in deep trouble for the bulk of the contest against Congo with Kane getting them out of a jam. England have scored more than 2 goals in only 2 of their last 10 games and they will likely need at least to goals to win in regulation as Mexico has scored in 8 consecutive games.

Cannot see a way where England dominate this contest and dealing with pressure. They have conceded at least once in 6 of their last 8 knockout matches in this tournament with a total of 12 goals allowed in those games. They have averaged 18.5 shots per game but can see them being held to half that number in this contest. They have turned 74 shots into 8 goal which equates to an 11% conversion rate. Think the market has got this one seriously wrong with Mexico double chance an all-time play.

Player To Watch

Following his performance against Congo it would be criminal to not talk about Harry Kane. His double in a span of only 11 minutes got England out of jail but how much further can he take them??? Has been incredibly efficient with 5 goals from 9 attempts on target but it seems as though England are reluctant to get crosses into the box in the early stages of the game. They cannot afford to take a back seat against Mexico and that is the great fear for them here.

Betting Tips

Best Bet: Mexico Double Chance ($1.55)
Other: Under 1.5 goals ($2.65)
Correct Score: Mexico 1-0 ($7.50)
SGM: Mexico Double Chance, 2nd Half Under 1.5 goals, Mexico Most Corners ($6.48)