Last updated & checked: 10/08/2021
Mexico know that they need just a point to confirm their progression into the last 16 but Sweden will be desperate for the win they are sure to need to advance themselves. El Tri have been one of the standout nations in Russia, winning their two games, but are incredibly unsure about qualification. Whilst they will have been deflated that Toni Kroos’ late goal increased the importance of the Sweden clash, they will head into the game in real confidence after two convincing performances.
Meanwhile, the European nation are sure to be gutted after that Kroos strike meant they now need three points in Yekaterinburg. However, they knew they were in a tough group and they would probably have been happy to take it to the final game against the Mexicans. Additionally, they performed very well against Germany and lost to a bit of set-piece magic, which followed a comfortable 1-0 win over South Korea.
Here we will give you Mexico vs Sweden betting tips, look at where the game will be won, the key players and a Mexico vs Sweden prediction for the Group F encounter.
Our Mexico vs Sweden Prediction: Mexico 2-0 Sweden
Our Mexico vs Sweden prediction tips is for Mexico to maintain their good form and secure progression to the last 16 as group winners.
Mexico will be wary heading into the final game, however with a draw also meaning they will progress, it means Sweden must force the issue at some point. And, as we saw against Germany and for the second goal against South Korea, El Tri are devastating on the counter attack. With Hirving Lozano out wide, Javier Hernandez up top and Carlos Vela picking up intelligent positions as a number ten, it suits their game plan perfectly to be able to spring and break.
Meanwhile, Sweden are a resilient side and could cause Mexico trouble from set-plays and with their direct approach. As well as that, they’ve shown in the two games so far that they are tough and hard to beat, so the longer they stay in the game, the more the Mexicans will get nervous, which could play into their hands.
Our recommended tip – Mexico to win
Whilst we think this will be a tough game for Mexico and there could be many nervous moments, ultimately they are a better side.
Juan Carlos Osorio’s side have great technical midfielders which should allow them to control the tempo, whilst Sweden’s rigid 4-4-2 formation means they will struggle to get a foothold at times. They are a side suited to sitting deep, are compact in their shape and don’t take the game to the opposition. Given their need for three points, they are going to have to change their way they play and it could backfire.
Previous matches
The clash at Central Stadium will be the tenth fixture between the two nations and it’s been relatively even in the past, with Sweden winning four, three draws and two Mexican wins. Only one of those has been in the World Cup though, back in 1958 when hosts Sweden won.
As mentioned, Mexico have been one of the best teams in Russia, playing with pace, intensity and real attacking intent. They also backed up arguably the performance of the tournament against Germany with a win against South Korea that was a very different game.
Sweden have been impressive themselves though, getting a 1-0 win over South Korea that was merited before pushing Germany all the way until the late heartbreak, Nevertheless, they’ve shown exactly what they are about, with the side well-organised, solid and despite a lack of world-class stars they are an effective team that have a lot of belief.
Top 3 World Cup Bookies
Players to watch – Hirving Lozano & Emil Forsberg
The breakout star for Mexico has been Hirving Lozano, who has taken his form from PSV into the World Cup. He has blistering pace, great dribbling ability and can score goals. In a game that Mexico will eventually be able to counter in, providing they’re level, he could once again be the matchwinner and will be key in transitions for El Tri.
Whilst Mexico have flair and attacking talent, Sweden are a lot more methodical, although they do have Forsberg who is capable of moments of magic. He hasn’t yet had a massive influence at this tournament but he could still deliver at Central Stadium. He can beat players, score from range and will be a real threat if he finds his best form.
