The USA vs Mexico soccer rivalry: which country is better at soccer?

favourThe USA vs Mexico soccer rivalry is renowned as one of the most intense in international soccer, marked by fan fervour, on-field skirmishes, and a competitive edge often reflecting the political nuances between Mexico and the U.S. These matches garner significant media coverage and public interest in both countries, emphasizing their importance.

The games, especially those at Estadio Azteca and the USA's Rose Bowl, draw massive crowds, often exceeding 100,000 and 90,000 fans, respectively, highlighting the rivalry's widespread appeal. This rivalry, dating back to 1934, has evolved into a fascinating duel that encapsulates not just sporting excellence but also cultural and national pride.

USA vs Mexico soccer history

The inaugural match between the two was a pivotal World Cup qualifier in Italy in 1934. This marked the beginning of a long-standing soccer rivalry.

By September 1937, Mexico started a winning streak against the U.S., with significant victories in friendly matches. The key clashes in this rivalry are often seen during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and major North American tournaments like the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the Nations League.

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The rivalry incidences

The rivalry is also evident in friendly games, which are often intensely competitive, contradicting their "friendly" label. In this intense soccer rivalry, several heated incidents have occurred:

1. The term "Dos a Cero" became emblematic of this rivalry, especially following the USA's 2-0 victory over Mexico in the 2002 FIFA World Cup​.
2. In 2004, Landon Donovan was mistakenly reported by media as having urinated on the field in Guadalajara, leading to local fan outrage. This was later clarified as a misunderstanding.
3. During a 2007 friendly in Arizona, post-goal celebrations by the U.S. team led to a near altercation between a Mexican goalkeeper and a U.S. player.
4. A 2009 World Cup qualifier saw a physical confrontation between a Mexican coach and a U.S. player.
5. The 2021 CONCACAF Nations League final was noted for its physical play and altercations, including crowd disturbances following a U.S. penalty goal.
6. The 2023 CONCACAF Nations League semi-final was particularly contentious, featuring multiple red and yellow cards, fan incidents, and an early match termination due to disruptive behaviour.

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USA vs Mexico soccer achievements

Mexico's success in men's international soccer is exemplified by their achievements in the FIFA Confederations Cup, where they have one title, won in 1999. They also have an impressive record in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, with nine titles.

Notable Mexican players have made significant impacts in major European leagues. These include Hugo Sánchez, who had a stellar career at Real Madrid, and Rafael Márquez, known for his time at F.C. Barcelona.

The USA, while having a more recent rise in international soccer prominence, has also produced notable players who have succeeded in top European leagues. Players like Christian Pulisic, who has made a mark at Chelsea FC in the Premier League, and Weston McKennie, playing for Juventus in Serie A, are among the current generation leading this charge.

The USA's achievements in the CONCACAF region, particularly in the Gold Cup, demonstrate their growing stature in international soccer. The country has garnered seven CONCACAF Gold Cup titles. Both nations have made notable contributions to the sport, with their rivalry enriching the landscape of international soccer.

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USA vs Mexico all-time record

As of 2023, the two teams have met 76 times, with Mexico leading the overall series 36–17–23 (Wins-Draws-Losses). The country had a significant early advantage, but the USA has made significant strides since the turn of the century.

In the 21st century, the USA leads the series with 18 wins, 8 draws, and 9 losses since 2000. This period marked the emergence of the USA as a formidable force in CONCACAF, challenging Mexico's long-standing dominance​​.

USA vs Mexico soccer legends

The rivalry is replete with legendary figures and unforgettable moments. Landon Donovan is a standout name in this rivalry, especially remembered for his debut goal at just 18 years old and his crucial contributions in subsequent matches, including the World Cup.

Another unforgettable moment is the 2011 Gold Cup final, where Mexico made a dramatic comeback from a 2-0 deficit, culminating in a stunning goal by Giovani dos Santos. The 2007 Copa Oro saw Benny Feilhaber score a remarkable goal for the USA, contributing to their first victory in a final.

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Are there some who have played for both nations?

Yes, the United States and Mexico both actively seek to recruit dual-nationality soccer players. They include those born in the United States to Mexican parents or the other way.

As of January 2023, players like Martín Vásquez, Edgar Castillo, Julián Araujo, Jonathan Gómez, and Alejandro Zendejas have represented both nations at the senior level. Additionally, players such as William Yarbrough, Isaác Brizuela, Miguel Ponce, Jonathan González, Efraín Álvarez, David Ochoa, and Julián Araujo are other notable examples of this recruitment dynamic.

Which manager coached United States and Mexico in soccer?

Bora Milutinović holds the unique distinction of being the only manager to have led both the United States and Mexico's national soccer teams. He first managed Mexico from 1983 to 1986, which included hosting the World Cup, and then again from 1995 to 1997.

Milutinović also managed the U.S. team, known as the Stars and Stripes, from 1991 to 1995, coinciding with the 1994 FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States. His tenure with both teams highlights his significant contributions to soccer in North America.

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Women's USA vs Mexico soccer

In the head-to-head record between the USA Women's and Mexico Women's soccer teams, the USA Women have a significantly dominant record. They have won 19 out of 21 matches, with Mexico winning only 2.

The total score across these matches is heavily in favour of the USA Women, who have scored 88 goals compared to Mexico's 10. This record demonstrates the strong performance and dominance of the USA Women's team in this matchup.

Final word

While Mexico has a richer history in terms of victories and achievements, the USA has shown remarkable progress and competitiveness, especially in the last two decades. This rivalry, beyond the numbers, is a testament to the passion and growth of soccer in both nations, making it a highlight in the international soccer calendar.

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Sports Brief published an article about the 10 best Mexican soccer players of all time. These individuals have made significant career strides in the World Cup and Premier League and are flying high in various positions.

Did you know that soccer is the second-most popular game in Mexico? So, who are the best Mexican soccer players? Click the above link to read more!