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Mexico's 3-1 victory over Uruguay Sunday can objectively be called a triumph, and leaves Mexico in full control of their destiny in regards to reaching the Copa America Centenario group stage. The game was not an unequivocal triumph, however, as El Tri lost their sometimes-captain and some would argue best player, Andres Guardado, to a red card.
Guardado will be suspended for Thursday's clash against Jamaica, which raises the question: what are Mexico to do in El Principito's absence?
I think they should play a 4-4-2 (or 3-5-2) with the players they started against Uruguay, with Raul Jimenez replacing Guardado and partnering with Chicharito up front. You have to play to your squad's strengths in situations like this, and Mexico don't really have a good like-for-like replacement for Guardado.
I suppose it depends how dangerous Juan Carlos Osorio considers Jamaica's midfield, and whether he thinks he can get by without a third center mid. A Hector Herrera double pivot with Miguel Layun, Rafa Marquez or Diego Reyes could be effective in distributing to the attacking players.
It will be interesting to see what Osorio decides to do. Whatever his decision, Mexico should take care of business on Thursday.
Contact The18 Staff Writer Sam Klomhaus at Klomhaus@The18.com or follow him on Twitter @SamKlomhaus
