Loss of Gas: Mexico and Panama face off for the World Cup ticket

Mexico lost gas at home in the past process. Points were disappearing in what used to be a fortress. In this process, the scene was different, although the Tricolor was not immune to criticism either, as the fans expected better performance and sometimes even demanded big victories.

The truth is, currently, the Tri has regained its spirit at home. The opponents no longer disrespect them so easily. And the players hope to continue in the same direction.

On Friday, they will play for the World Cup ticket at the Coloso de Santa Úrsula against Panama, and for Jonathan dos Santos, it will be important to maintain the hierarchy they have recovered.

Furthermore, he knows well that the Panamanians will plant themselves in the Estadio Azteca, waiting for a mistake. Those are the opponents that complicate things, the ones who close themselves off.

"It will be a very difficult match. In these qualifiers, the opponents are very tough. We know they are an athletic team with quality players, and they will make it difficult for us. We will have to create opportunities. We understand the importance of this match, and when playing at home, we always have to get the three points," commented Jonathan dos Santos.

RAÚL'S GOOD MEMORIES

A bicycle kick against Panama at Estadio Azteca allowed Mexico to continue dreaming of going to the World Cup in Brazil.

The Tricolor was going through one of its worst moments. They had two matches left in the Hexagonal and had only accumulated eight points.

On October 13th, they faced the Panamanian side and, in the 80th minute, the score was tied 1-1. They added a point that meant very little. However, Raúl Jiménez appeared with a great goal that allowed the Mexican team to reach eleven points, which later became the springboard to the repechage and, ultimately, to the World Cup.

Jiménez still remembers that moment. Now, another match against Panama is of great importance since they could secure their qualification for Russia 2018. "It's a match that brings back nice memories, something I will never forget. Let's hope we come out with another victory on Friday."

The Benfica forward referred to the difficulty they expect in the match.

"It will be a difficult and complicated match. We know that Panama has also grown, and we have taken steps to keep growing and playing well. But we must not forget that the different national teams also matter, that they also do their work, and they will come here wanting to play their way. We need to perform as we have been doing."