In opposition to Ecuador, we risked our lives: Jaime Lozano

Mexico Metropolis. “We’re enjoying for our lives.” Greater than a press release, the Mexican nationwide group coach Jaime Lozano frames in that assertion what’s at stake in opposition to Ecuador of their third and last match of the primary spherical of the Copa America. Solely a win on the sizzling College of Phoenix (the place the native climate service predicts temperatures of 43 levels on Sunday) will assure their survival in a event through which they’ve solely reached the ultimate twice, considered one of them in 1993.

“Tomorrow (in the present day) we’re going to play for our lives,” mentioned coach Jaime Lozano in a press convention. “Ecuador is a tricky rival. That they had an accident in opposition to Venezuela, however with Jamaica they returned to doing what they know find out how to do. As for my continuity, these are selections that aren’t as much as me. It relies upon rather a lot on the outcomes. I’ve to attempt to get one of the best efficiency from the gamers, there are selections that aren’t as much as me.”

On the finish of the earlier spherical, Venezuela secured a spot within the final eight by profitable each of its matches (2-1 over Ecuador and 1-0 in opposition to Mexico). With Jamaica already eradicated and with out factors, the Tricolor, led by Spaniard Félix Sánchez, arrives with the arrogance that the outcomes give. Within the World Cup qualifiers for 2026, it occupies fifth place, simply 4 factors behind the runner-up, Uruguay (13), though a lot additional behind the chief Albiceleste (15).

“You must know find out how to play below that stress,” provides defender Johan Vásquez. “Typically we now have to hearken to detrimental issues to push ourselves. We all know that the followers will reply to us, we now have a reference to them and we’re going to danger our lives.”

Along with the accidents to goalkeeper Luis Malagón and midfielder Edson Álvarez, who had been out of the event, the Tricolor should resolve the muscular issues introduced by defender César Montes, who’s doubtful for this match.