Who is involved
As the international football community gears up for the 2026 World Cup, Mexico and Belgium are set to clash in a friendly match on March 31, 2026, at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. This encounter comes at a pivotal time for both teams, each with distinct trajectories leading up to the match. Historically, Mexico has been a competitive force in international football, while Belgium has recently emerged as a powerhouse, boasting a talented roster.
Prior to this matchup, expectations were varied. Mexico, under the management of Javier Aguirre, faced challenges, having drawn 0-0 against Portugal in their last outing. This lack of scoring has raised concerns, as Mexico has only managed to score four goals in seven games since the 2025 Gold Cup, getting blanked four times. In contrast, Belgium showcased a formidable performance, defeating the United States 5-2 in their last match, and has scored an impressive 37 goals in their last 10 games, with 17 goals in just the last four matches.
The decisive moment for Mexico came with Aguirre’s return, which initially sparked hope for a revival. However, the team’s inability to find the net consistently has left fans and analysts questioning their readiness for the World Cup. The stark contrast in scoring capabilities is evident, as Mexico’s last victory over a top-10 ranked team was against Germany in the 2018 World Cup, highlighting a significant gap in their recent performances.
Belgium’s trajectory, on the other hand, has been characterized by an unbeaten run of 10 games, with a remarkable scoring record. The team’s attacking prowess, led by stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Dodi Lukébakio, has made them a formidable opponent. As they prepare for the friendly against Mexico, the team is expected to field a strong lineup, including players like Amadou Onana and Axel Witsel, who have been instrumental in their recent successes.
The direct effects of these performances are significant for both teams. For Mexico, a good performance against Belgium could bolster their confidence as they approach the World Cup, with the need for improvement evident. As noted, “A good performance and result would also go a long way toward improving El Tri’s confidence with the World Cup just a little over two months away.” Conversely, Belgium’s recent form places them in a favorable position, with expectations high for continued success.
Experts have pointed out the contrasting narratives surrounding these two teams. While Mexico’s backline has shown some resilience, the lack of offensive output is a growing concern. As one analyst remarked, “Mexico’s backline has done alright since Aguirre’s return, but since the 2025 Gold Cup, El Tri has only scored four goals in seven games during FIFA windows, getting blanked four times.” In contrast, Belgium’s attacking capabilities have been lauded, with their recent scoring spree underscoring their strength.
As the match approaches, both teams are finalizing their lineups. Mexico’s predicted lineup includes players like Raúl Jiménez and Erick Sánchez, while Belgium will likely feature stars such as Tielemans and Openda. The outcome of this friendly will not only serve as a preparation for the World Cup but also provide insight into the current state of both teams.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the squads, including the withdrawal of Leandro Trossard from Belgium’s camp. As the football world watches, the friendly match between Mexico and Belgium promises to be a telling indicator of their readiness for the upcoming World Cup.
