Mexico Travels South for World Cup Preparation Friendly
Mexico faces Bolivia in an international friendly Sunday, January 25, at Estadio Ramón Tahuichi Aguilera in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, with both nations using the matchup for crucial preparation ahead of major competitions.
Building Momentum Before the World Cup
The Selección Mexicana arrives in Bolivia riding momentum after Thursday’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama, which snapped a six-game winless streak that had raised concerns heading into 2026. Mexico looks to extend that winning streak and continue fine-tuning their squad under manager Javier Aguirre, who has been experimenting with tactical formations during the January camp.
Mexico vs Bolivia represents the second of Mexico’s preparation matches, offering Aguirre opportunities to test new personnel and formations. The coach recently abandoned his preferred 4-3-3 setup in favor of a 3-4-3 formation, which he’s expected to continue employing through the end of the January camp.
Bolivia’s World Cup Dreams on the Line
For Bolivia, this friendly serves as their final tune-up before a crucial intercontinental playoff against Suriname on March 26. A victory in that playoff would push the Andean nation within 90 minutes of their first World Cup appearance this century, facing Iraq in the next round.
Bolivia drew 1-1 with Panama on January 18 in their previous 2026 preparation match, and they’ll face Mexico without some of their top talents sidelined. Meanwhile, Mexico will also operate at less than full strength, with midfielder Erick Sánchez unavailable due to injury and defender Jesús Orozco expected to miss action due to a broken ankle.
Historical Advantage Favors México
Mexico and Bolivia have faced off five times in recent years, with Mexico dominating the head-to-head record with four victories and one draw. Their most recent meeting came in a 1-0 friendly victory on May 31, 2024, giving the Tricolor confidence heading into Sunday’s encounter.
Sports analysts predict another Mexico victory, with a 1-0 scoreline anticipated as both teams prioritize defensive structure. The match kicks off at 2:30 p.m. ET on Sunday.
