Friday 13/06/2014, 18:00, World Cup Group A, Mexico vs Cameroon

Mexico vs Cameroon Betting Preview

Mexico drew the short stick once again at the World Cup, as they were dealt some difficult opponents and their chances of surviving Group A are not that good. Brazil will probably cruise towards an easy ascension to the elimination round and the remaining three teams will be left to fight for the second place. In order to keep their faint hopes alive, the Mexicans will need to win at least four points from the other two games and it looks like defeating Cameroon is a must to stay alive in this race.

Mexico vs Cameroon Betting Odds

At Bet365

Mexico 2.15, Draw 3.10, Cameroon 3.60

Mexico vs Cameroon Betting Tips

Croatia is credited by bookmakers with the best chance to join Brazil to the next phase and that's why the result between Mexico and Cameroon is so important. Playing defensive football in an attempt of settling for one point won't help any team and none of them are particularly good at defending draws.

Throughout the qualification campaign, Mexico had a hard time keeping clean sheets and they will be hard pressed to bolster their defenses. They have fewer experienced players in the backline than they did at the previous World Cup, which means that their best chances to keep the ball in the other half.

In the opening game, Mexico will try to prove that the best defense is an aggressive offense and will be fielding no less than three strikers. Cameroon has plenty of vulnerabilities and when kept under pressure, its defenders tend to commit mistakes that frequently result in unexpected goals.

By contrast, the African nation has a formidable offense and Eto'o will be the one spearheading this attacking trident. He is no longer in his prime, but still good enough to surprise a shaky defense and it all depends on how many quality passes he will receive from midfielders.

Key Facts

• Samuel Eto'o is a great striker, but he is not aging gracefully and if most balls will be heading towards him, Cameroon would be deprived of good scoring opportunities.
• Hernandez got the chance to play a handful of games for Manchester United after their best strikers picked up injuries and he travels to Brazil at the peak of his form.

Mexico vs Cameroon Betting Odds Prediction

At least in theory, this game can go either way, but with Cameroon being overall a weaker team than the one participating in the previous World Cup 2014, Mexico has the first chance. Odds of 2.15 for a straight victory are appealing and as long as their superior midfield can keep Samuel Eto'o separated from his teammates, the pressure on the defense will be alleviated. This is a game of critical importance for Mexico and they are worth given some credit as long as the odds don't sink below this value.

Bet: Mexico @ 2.15 with Bet365