El Tri Vs. New Zealand Predictions: Mexico Head Coach Miguel 'El Piojo' Herrera Hopes To Earn Early Advantage [PREVIEW]

El Tri's World Cup qualifying match against New Zealand is going to be close: closer than you might think. While New Zealand is chasing only its second World Cup berth (this would be Mexico's 15th), the all-whites topped Oceania's qualifying pool and didn't lose a single match. Moreover, Mexico is still reeling from a string of coaching replacements after a hugely disappointing CONCAF season. Head Coach Miguel 'El Piojo' Herrera will be hoping for an early advantage to secure El Tri's victory over the New Zealanders.

El Tri is a heavy favorite. But with the prospect of not qualifying for the first time in 30 years looming, the pressure is palpable. Miguel Herrera will be banking on a home ground advantage to get his team over the line. 'We'll do it here,'' Herrera said. ''I'm sure that Mexico will get the advantage so we can relax in Wellington and finish the job. This is the idea. To take care of business at home.'' Indeed, Mexico City's high altitude is expected to play heavily into the competition: ''That's why we have a local team,'' 'El Piojo' added. ''We have players who are used to playing at this altitude.''

Indeed, Miguel Herrera has selected local players like Oribe Peralta, Aldo de Nigris and Rual Jimenez, overlooking Europe-based players like Manchester United's Javier Hernandez. Mexico has often being accused of lacking unity with its players scattered all over the world. With his new team, Mexico's mediochre performances of late is something Herrera is trying to leave behind: "We are in the process of leaving behind the past and looking toward the great opportunity we have," Herrera said. "We are not overconfident. An excess of confidence would make us think our rival is a step below us."

The New Zealanders will have to contend with not only the high altitude, but also an intense packed Estadio Azteca crowd. Moreover, the all-whites will be without West Ham defender Winston Reid who is out with an ankle injury. Betting sites give Mexico a 2/9 advantage, with New Zealands odds at 19/1 to pull off an upset.