Mexico Clashes with Japan: Battle Preview, Bold Predictions and Starting XI Revealed
Mexico continues their preparations for the rapidly approaching 2026 FIFA World Cup, taking on Japan in the opening match of two international friendlies scheduled on American territory this month.
The year has proven successful for Mexico thus far. While Javier Aguirre's squad hasn't displayed breathtaking football, El Tri will conclude the year as Concacaf's undisputed champions, capturing both the Nations League and Gold Cup titles.
Upon Aguirre's managerial return twelve months ago, Mexico found itself in the midst of a significant crisis. Following a year of consistent on-field performances, confidence around El Tri is beginning to build as they prepare to host the 2026 World Cup's inaugural match.
The encounter with Japan represents a crucial evaluation opportunity for Aguirre as he continues player assessments before next summer. Hajime Moriyasu's squad has also secured World Cup qualification and possesses considerable European-based talent available for this friendly encounter.
These are two nations that seldom meet, potentially creating an unpredictable contest filled with excitement.
Here's Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview of Mexico vs. Japan.
What Time Does Mexico vs. Japan Kick-Off?
Mexico vs. Japan Head-to-Head Record
Current Form (All Competitions)
Mexico | Japan |
|---|---|
USMNT 1–2 Mexico - 7/6/25 | Japan 6–0 Indonesia - 6/10/25 |
Mexico 1–0 Honduras - 7/2/25 | Australia 1–0 Japan - 6/5/25 |
Mexico 2–0 Saudi Arabia - 6/28/25 | Japan 0–0 Saudi Arabia - 3/25/25 |
Mexico 0–0 Costa Rica - 6/22/25 | Japan 2–0 Bahrain - 3/20/25 |
Suriname 0–2 Mexico - 6/18/25 | China 1–3 Japan - 11/19/24 |
How to Watch Mexico vs. Japan on TV and Live Stream
Country | TV Channel / Live Stream |
|---|---|
United States | TUDN, Univision, FOX Deportes, fuboTV, ViX |
Mexico | TUDN, Canal 5, Azteca 7, ViX, Amazon Prime Video |
Mexico Team News
El Tri will deploy a nearly identical formation to the one that overcame the USMNT in July's 2025 Gold Cup Final. Aguirre appears to have established a clear vision of the core players who will comprise Mexico's primary World Cup starting eleven.
Gilberto Mora, the Gold Cup's standout performer, won't participate in September's friendlies as he's currently preparing to represent El Tri in the upcoming U-20 FIFA World Cup. With Luis Chávez just two months into extensive ACL rehabilitation, Orbelín Pineda might receive another midfield opportunity.
Hirving "Chucky" Lozano and Diego Lainez have rejoined El Tri following prolonged absences. Mexico has struggled with wing attacking options, giving both players significant World Cup selection chances if they perform well in upcoming friendlies.
Nevertheless, all indicators suggest Raúl Jiménez will spearhead the attack, flanked by Liga MX talents Alexis Vega and Roberto Alvarado, maintaining the formation used throughout most of 2025.
Mexico Predicted Lineup vs. Japan
Mexico predicted lineup vs. Japan (4-2-3-1): Malagón; Huescas, Montes, Vásquez, Gallardo; Álvarez, Ruíz, Alvarado, Pineda, Vega; Jiménez
Japan Team News
Japan arrives for their September friendlies on American soil with a highly competitive roster.
Liverpool's Wataru Endo will control the midfield, partnered by Takefusa Kubo. While the Real Sociedad player typically operates on the wing for his club, he's featured in deeper midfield roles during recent national team appearances.
Brighton's Kaoru Mitoma will assume left wingback duties, a position he's occupied in Japan's recent matches. Eintracht Frankfurt's Ritsu Doan will join former Liverpool player Takumi Minamino in attack following an impressive Bundesliga season start.
Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka didn't join the squad after sustaining an injury against Arsenal in the Premier League's second fixture.
Japan Predicted Lineup vs. Mexico
Japan predicted lineup vs. Mexico (3-4-2-1): Susuki; Seko, Itakura, Watanabe; Ito, Endo, Kubo, Mitoma; Doan, Minamino; Maeda
Mexico vs. Japan Score Prediction
Mexico has developed cohesion under Aguirre, evolving into a well-structured defensive unit that consistently capitalizes on scoring chances.
Japan will probably control possession due to their abundant midfield talent. However, El Tri's solid defensive foundation could prove challenging to penetrate, as demonstrated throughout the year.
Mexico will create limited attacking opportunities but, with Raúl Jiménez seemingly elevating his performance level during national team duty, he'll maintain his excellent form and guide Mexico to victory.
Score Prediction: Mexico 2–1 Japan