The U.S. men's national team are hours away from opening the World Cup Qualifying Hex against Mexico, their biggest foe and perennial litmus test. While the World Cup Final in Russia may not be at stake, establishing control of the CONCACAF region most definitely is. Both teams have been performing well recently, but have also picked up noticeable scars. Mexico is the reigning Gold Cup Champion, and they followed up with a 3-2 victory over the U.S. to advance to the Confederation Cup. El Tri then reeled off eight straight matches without allowing a goal. However, in their last critical match they were embarrassed in a 7-0 loss to Chile.