'Canada has shown that they can compete' - El Tri's Alexis Vega shows respect ahead of Mexico's CONCACAF Nation's League semifinal

Alexis Vega is aware of how difficult the Mexican national team's match with Canada will be as they fight for a spot in the CONCACAF Nations League Final.

The Toluca forward from Liga MX emphasized that Jesse Marsch's side "is a national team that has shown it can compete against the best. They made that clear in the Copa América. Right now, we’re not thinking about the final - first, we have to beat Canada and then focus on what’s next. They’re a team that tries to take the ball from us with high pressing, but if our center-backs and full-backs can connect with the forwards, that’s where we can do damage - we know how to counterattack.

"I'm very happy to be here; it was a rebirth for me. Wearing this jersey fills me with pride. I'm very happy because I have enjoyed it to the fullest, and now that I'm here, I try to contribute my bit to achieve good results in the competitions."

Javier Aguirre's squad begins their journey toward a Nations League trophy on Thursday night. They must overcome Canada to secure a spot in the tournament final on Sunday. Mexico will face the winner of the match between the United States and Panama.

This will be the first major test for "Vasco" since taking over El Tri, replacing Jaime Lozano. The Mexican coach, now in his third stint with the team, aims to dispel doubts surrounding the squad's style of play since his arrival. Mexico have fallen short in two previous Nations League finals.

"I'm focused, but very excited," Mexico's Rodrigo Huescas said. "I don't know if I'll start, but what I do know is that I'm ready to give my 100 percent and win the match. In the end, it's a great test. The rivalry with Canada and the United States has been tough for us in recent years, but ultimately, we all want to be prepared for the World Cup. It's a great opportunity to see where we stand and what we need to improve."

Mexico has reached two finals in the previous three editions of the Nations League, in 2019-20 and 2023-24, but has not won the title. El Tri lost to USMNT 3-0 in the semifinals of the 2022-23 edition and had to settle for third place in the tournament, securing a 1-0 victory over Panama.