Mexico v Jamaica

Mexico vs Jamaica Preview

The other game being played in the first round of fixtures in Group B features Mexico taking on Jamaica in an all-CONCACAF clash at the NRG Stadium with both sides keen to make an instant impact in their respective Copa America campaigns - Mexico head into this clash though on the back of two defeats on the trot, while Jamaica have registered recent back-to-back wins in the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers.

Mexico are yet to participate in the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying phase as they enter the format in the third round of qualification and that is perhaps a good thing for Jaime Lozano's side as his Mexico side have managed to capture just four wins in their last 12 internationals in all competitions.

Friendly wins against Ghana and Bolivia along with wins in the Nations League against Honduras (on penalties) and Panama have been offset by slipping to five defeats which includes Nations League defeats at the hands of Honduras and arch-rivals, USA.

Mexico are expected to be backed by a large volume of support with this tournament being played in the USA but a new-look squad with focus on youngsters may see a squad in a transition period rather than serious contenders in this competition.

Jamaica will be in high spirits ahead of this opening fixture against Mexico as the Reggae Boyz will head into this clash on the back of two wins on the trot in the World Cup second qualifying round with victories over Dominican Republic and Dominica in 1-0 and 3-2 wins respectively which has lifted Heimir Hallgrimsson's side level on points with Guatemala at the top of Group E.

The likes of USA and Mexico are yet to enter the qualification phase but nevertheless, Jamaica will view this Copa America as a perfect opportunity to build further momentum on the international stage having reached the semi-finals of both the CONCACAF Gold Cup and Nations League.

These previous performances earned Jamaica a place in this year's Copa America tournament and having been dealt just two defeats in their last 18 internationals in all competitions which included a 3-0 loss to Mexico in last year's Gold Cup but also picking up 11 wins in the process, the Reggae Boyz will fancy their chances of producing an upset or two in Group B.

Mexico v Jamaica Verdict

Five of Mexico's last 10 games overall have resulted in Over 2.5 goals, while Jamaica possess the same ratio of three goals or more in their last 10 internationals, so the goals market looks an inviting prospect here given Mexico's new squad and Jamaica's unpredictable nature.

Both sides will also be keen to get some points on the board before meeting Venezuela and Ecuador.

Therefore, our main bet will be Over 2.5 goals @ 2.15

Other side bets worth considering:

Mexico win & Over 2.5 goals @ 2.75

Correct Score: Mexico 2-1 @ 9.00