Although the Americans had a hand in assisting with Mexico‘s World Cup qualification, the rivalry between both nations remains intense. After Mexico lost to Costa Rica, a 3-2 victory for USA over Panama meant that El Tri qualified for the World Cup play-off against New Zealand, which they eventually won.

The incident was indeed a hot topic amongst fans, especially after Mexico head coach Miguel Herrera stated that “they owe us more, for California”, in reference to American settlers helping the state secede from Mexico in the 19th century.

Whilst US head coach Jurgen Klinsmann didn’t want any part of this exchange of opinions, LA Galaxy defender Omar Gonzalez declared that the Mexicans wouldn’t have aided the Americans had the roles been reversed, adding further fuel to the fire.

Both nations enjoyed an entertaining 2-2 draw last week, although the Americans might be cursing their luck after losing a 2-0 lead. However, this was just a friendly, and whilst Mexico have often been the strongest outfit between the two, the US has been an ever improving footballing nation, playing catch up to their nemesis down south and hoping to exceed their own expectations.

Both nations are preparing well for their upcoming tests in Brazil. Current odds speculate that Mexico might finish 3rd in their group behind Brazil and Croatia, whilst the Americans are also in the same position as Germany and Portugal are favoured to qualify from the group instead. As we learnt from previous World Cup editions though, anything can happen.