The Carrileros

Because of the scheme that Ricardo Lavolpe plays, the carrileros will have play a vital roll for Mexico to have a successful run. Luckily for him, there is an abundance of talent on one side, probably too much talent, and not so much on the other.

The Right

By process of elimination, the last two players standing after Chava Carmona was suspended for doping are Gringo Castro and Mario Mendes. Neither have made us forget about Carmona, though.

Gringo Castro is a tireless denfender, and has good ball skills. Unfortunately, he thinks he has great ball skills and dances too much. His crosses could use some improvement. But he is a bulldog, he won’t get out hustled, he never gives up. And that may just be worth a goal or two.

Mario Mendes – One of Lavolpe’s pets. I don’t think he will play all that much, and when he does play, he really doesn’t distinguish himself all that much.

Let’s look at the left.

Ramon Morales – can go up the wing or attack from the left midfield position. He has excellent speed, and a decent shot. His lack of size is a concern, but he can rise above it.He hasn’t played all that much for Lavolpe, but really didn’t have anything to prove after a great showing in 2002. Will Ramoncito use his tactically horrendous subsitution is the USA game as motivation to play. I sure hope so.

Gonzalo Pineda – Like I mentioned last week, he is the most defensive of the carrileros, but does sneak up on occasion. He is young, has excellent stamina, and he doesn’t make mistakes. He has just enough offensive ability to be a threat. He could be one of the hidden gems of the cup.

Andres Guardado — He has star written all over him. He consistency is his best asset. At only 19, he has another 3 world cups in his future. He is fearless and fast. He has the versatility to play on the back, the wing or the midfield. He can unleash long accurate shots, his crosses are effective. But he is 19, so we worry about hitting walls. I don’t think so with this cat, he has “it.”

Jaime Lozano – At one time during the “proceso” Lozano was Mexico’s finest player, and he was my candidate to land a big contract in Europe. His free kick talents are unmatched on the Tri. Unfortunately, injuries have slowed him down this past year enough to erode what was once a certain spot on the bus. He is one of the bubble players and was given a reprieve with the 26 man call up. His offensive talents are indisputable, and Jimmy can show he can recover possession, then he might just make it. If he does, it’s adios chiquis.