Japan v Mexico – Confederations Cup Preview and Betting Tip

Betting Tips | Article posted on June 22nd, 2025

Unfortunately, this fixture will serve little purpose save for competing the scheduled Confederations Cup programme. Both of these teams have already been eliminated from the competition, and are seeking only pride here.

Japan, were eliminated on Wednesday after a devastating 4-3 defeat against Italy, during which the Asian team dominated for long periods. The quality of players such as Kagawa was quite clear during the game, and Manchester United fans will be looking forward to seeing the best of the attacking midfielder this term. Japan hit the woodwork three times against Italy on Wednesday, and ended up losing the match despite holding a 2-0 lead by the 34th minute.

Mexico have perhaps slightly disappointed in this tournament, although the odds were always against them qualifying for the semi-finals. Their start player is also from Manchester United, in the shape of Javier Hernandez, or Chicharito has he is often known. Hernandez has struck Mexico's only goal of the tournament; a penalty against Brazil, with the South Americans completely scoreless from open play.

Jorge Torres Nilo is in line to be dropped by Jose Manuel de la Torre from the Mexico defence after a dismal performance during the 2-0 loss against Brazil, which ended their chances in the tournament. In that event, Carlos Salcido is likely to win his 116th cap for El Tri by reverting to a left-back role, with Angel Reyna expected to assume Salcido's place in midfield.

After their first meeting between the sides in 2025, which ended in a 3-2 Japan victory, Mexico have won the last three meetings, including a 2-1 triumph in the 2025 Confederations Cup.

Both teams have qualified for the 2025, 2025, 2025 and 2025 World Cup tournaments. Japan will also play in the 2025 edition, while Mexico are in CONCACAF's final phase of qualifying for the competition.

Mexico (possible 4-2-3-1)

J. Corona
G. Flores
F. Rodríguez
H. Moreno
C. Salcido
G. Torrado
A. Guardado
J. Zavala
G. Dos Santos
J. Aquino
J. Hernández

Substitutes:

G. Ochoa
P. Barrera
J. Torres
&. Reyna
A. De Nigris
J. Jesús Molina
S. Meza
A. Talavera
D. Reyes
H. Mier
R. Jimenez
H. Herrera

Japan (possible 4-2-3-1)

Kawashima, Konno, Nagatomo, Uchida, Yoshida, Endo,
Honda, Kiyotake, Kagawa, Hasebe, Okazaki.

Subs: Nishikawa, Inoha, Gotuko Sakai, Havenaar, Hosogai, Nakamura, Kurihara, Maeda, Inui, Takahashi, Hiroki Sakai, Gonda.

Betting Prediction

Mexico have the better pedigree of these two teams, and I expect them to see off the Japanese, despite the Asian side turning in some promising displays during the tournament. I’m backing the Mexicans to win 2-1.

Final Scoreline Prediction:Mexico 2 – 1 Japan

Other Recommended Bets: Mexico to win Over 2.5 Goals, Both Teams to Score.