The group stage of the Copa America 2024 is almost over, and Group B still has room for one more team to get its ticket to the knockout rounds. Mexico and Ecuador are tied on total points (three) and will compete Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Arizona to determine who will make it to the quarterfinals. Mexico suffered a 2-1 defeat to group leader Venezuela on Wednesday, while Ecuador defeated Jamaica 3-1 and maintained second place ahead of the final day of play. This is essentially a knockout round with a lot at stake.
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming match:
View information
- Date: Sunday June 30 | Time: 8 p.m
- Place: State Farm Stadium – Glendale, AZ
- TV: Fox Sports 1, TUDN, Univisie | Live stream: Fubo (try for free)
Storylines
Mexico: Head coach Jimmy Lozano selected a younger squad with an emphasis on the Copa America as crucial preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where El Tri will serve as co-host. The group have struggled to convert their chances in front of goal, even on penalties, and are now on the brink of elimination from the Copa America. Luis Romo has played up Edson Alvarez’s injury, but striker Santiago Gimenez is still struggling on the international stage. There is a must-win scenario in front of them and how they succeed will be the storyline of this match.
Ecuador: The group’s destiny is in their hands, a win or a draw is enough, and they bounced back after losing captain Enner Valencia to suspension last time out with a red card for a win. A solid win against Jamaica also gave them a goal difference tiebreaker heading into the final match of group play. They will look to wreak havoc on the counters now that Valencia is back. He will be a threat for Mexico alongside 17-year-old Kendry Paez, who led the team in six shots and converted a penalty in the last match.
Group B table and schedule
| PLACE | TEAM | Member of Parliament | W | D | L | G.F | GO | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Venezuela | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | +2 | 6 |
| 2 | Ecuador | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 3 | +1 | 3 |
| 3 | Mexico | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| 4 | Jamaica | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 4 | -3 | 0 |
June 22
Ecuador1, Venezuela2
Mexico 0, Jamaica 0
June 26
Ecuador 3, Jamaica 1
Venezuela 1, Mexico 0
June 30th
Mexico vs Ecuador, 8pm on FS1
Jamaica vs. Venezuela, 8 p.m. on FOX
Prediction
It’s do or die for both teams, so expect the drama to overshadow any thoughts of good football. Two teams that have not done themselves any favors this tournament and it will continue on the last day of play with a result that will see Ecuador through. Choose: Mexico 1, Ecuador 1
