MEXICO is not in South America. It is in a different hemisphere.
The distance between Buenos Aires in Argentina and Mexico City is further than that between London and Mumbai.
Monterrey’s Carlos Rodriguez celebrates scoring against Al SaddCredit: Reuters
Liverpool are preparing for the Club World CupCredit: EPA
Mexico is in North America, and its football reflects that. There is plenty of razzamatazz.
But there is also a strong South American influence.
The clubs, with the exception of Chivas in Guadalajara – who only choose Mexicans – are full of foreign players.
Most of them are from South America, and a high percentage of them are from Argentina.
And this is reflected in the team of Monterrey, who face Liverpool in Wednesday’s Club World Cup semi final.
Monterrey booked their place with Saturday’s 3-2 win over Al Sadd of Qatar.
Six of the starting line up, plus two of the three substitutes were South American.
Two are Colombian. The other six are Argentine, like the coach, the ever-dapper Antonio Mohammed.
DEFENCE WILL BE KEY
The South Americans have a vital role to play against Liverpool.
Mexican clubs have a dismal record in the Club World Cup.
One reason is that they are often too expansive, too open – an approach that will surely be suicide if they try it against the European champions.
It is striking that the only non-European victories in the current format of the competition (since 2005) have come when Brazilian teams covered up, defended deep and looked for a single break out.
It worked for Sao Paulo against Liverpool in 2005, Internacional against Barcelona the following year and Corinthians against Chelsea in 2012.
If Monterrey are to spring a surprise, then veteran Argentine goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero will surely need to play the game of his life.
Monterrey goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero could be in for a busy night against LiverpoolCredit: EPA
Jonathan Gonzalez of Monterrey battles for possessionCredit: Getty – Contributor
Rodolfo Pizarro, right, is likely to face Liverpool in DohaCredit: Getty – Contributor
TEAM FULL OF EXPERIENCE
His compatriot Nico Sanchez, 33, will need to have his lack of pace protected – and much the same applies to Jose Maria Basanta, 35, who played in the 2014 World Cup and came off the bench on Saturday.
Another Saturday substitute was busy and versatile midfielder Maxi Meza, who played for Argentina in last year’s World Cup.
It would be no surprise if he were to start Wednesday’s game in a bid to block Liverpool in midfield.
The full backs will probably have to spend most of their time defending. This could be hard for another Argentine, Leonel Vangioni, at left back.
He has a nice left foot, but is really more of a midfielder than a defender, and could struggle for pace.
Stefan Medina on the other flank is Colombia’s first choice right back. Intelligent and constructive, he can also play at centre back or in midfield, and may also struggle defensively against Liverpool’s speed and quality down the left.
Monterrey are managed by Argentinian Antonio MohamedCredit: EPA
SOUTH AMERICAN ATTACK
Another Colombian has a key role in attack. Monterrey’s best chances will probably come on the counter.
The club captain is attacking midfielder Dorlan Pabon, fast, stocky and with a rocket in his right boot.
Another option, not used on Saturday, is the Uruguayan winger Jonathan Urreteviscaya, a member of last year’s World Cup squad.
Now 29, he once attracted comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo, Urreteviscaya has suffered from injuries and has not fulfilled his potential. But he is skilful and strong on the ball, and could pose a threat.
The likes of Pabon and Urreteviscaya will be looking to supply centre forward Rogelio Funes Mori, twin brother of former Premier League centre back Ramiro, now on the bench with Villarreal in Spain.
Ramiro’s Everton connection will surely make him especially pleased if his brother can tip the balance against Jurgen Klopp’s men.
Rogelio Funes Mori will be the target man for MonterreyCredit: Getty – Contributor
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is happy to stay at the club as he signs new five-year contract
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
