After a hard-fought 1-0 win for Mexico in the opener on October 23 at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes—courtesy of an early goal from Rebeca Bernal—the Tri Femenil look to close out the two-match series Mexico vs New Zealand this Sunday at Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez.
Under coach Pedro López, the hosts delivered a strong defensive performance despite altitude challenges for the visitors but now face concerns over forward Jasmine Casárez, who left the first leg with a minor ankle injury.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Football Ferns showed resilience in a gritty effort that snapped their four-game losing streak but failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities. No new injuries were reported for the Ferns, though midfielder Betsy Hassett remains out with a long-term knee issue.
As Mexico vs New Zealand both teams gear up for the upcoming qualifiers, this rematch gives Mexico a chance to build home momentum while New Zealand seeks a confidence-boosting result ahead of their Pacific tour.
Mexico vs New Zealand Women International Friendly Match Date, Time, Predictions, and More
The concluding leg of this Women’s International Friendly series shifts to Chihuahua for a tactical showdown, with Mexico’s home advantage clashing against New Zealand’s counter-threat.
The match kicks off on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT) at Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. On the Same date USWNT and Portugal Women’s are playing the match international Friendly.
Predictions favor a 2-1 victory for Mexico, with their attacking depth (averaging 1.8 goals per friendly) giving them the edge over New Zealand’s improved structure. However, the Ferns’ strength in set-pieces could keep the match competitive. This Mexico vs New Zealand preview highlights lineups, streams, and key insights for your women’s soccer spotlight.
Mexico vs New Zealand Women’s Team News and Analysis
Mexico’s first-leg victory showcased López’s mix of youthful energy and seasoned experience, with 23 players called up, including NWSL stars like Nikki Hernández. Casárez (ankle) is doubtful after being substituted, joining long-term absentee Mónica Ocampo (knee, out until December). Otherwise, the squad is nearly complete, with Lizbeth Ovalle (three recent assists) orchestrating plays in midfield.
The Tri dominated possession with 55% and a high press forcing 12 turnovers, but their finishing needs improvement, converting just one goal from 14 shots.
New Zealand, ranked 30th, adapted well to Mexico City’s altitude but faltered on conversions, managing only four shots on target. No new concerns beyond Hassett’s absence; Maddie Iro earns her first senior cap post-call-up, while veterans like Katie Kitching provide steel. Coach Michael Mayne’s 4-3-3 emphasized transitions (1.2 goals per qualifier), but defensive lapses conceded early—away form (one win in six) adds pressure.
Analysis:
Mexico’s home crowd and familiarity should dominate midfield battles, exploiting New Zealand’s flanks, but the Ferns’ aerial threat from corners (25% goals) tests the backline. Expect a more open second half, with subs decisive in the Juárez heat.
Mexico vs New Zealand Women’s Head-to-Head Record
Mexico holds a narrow all-time edge with three wins from seven meetings against New Zealand’s two, plus two draws. The Tri have won the last two encounters, including the series opener, though games average just 1.7 goals, pointing to tight, low-scoring affairs.
All-time H2H
| Date | Competition | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 23, 2025 | International Friendly | Mexico 1-0 New Zealand | 1-0 |
| Sep 2, 2022 | International Friendly | Mexico 0-1 New Zealand | 0-1 |
| Feb 15, 2014 | Cyprus Cup | Mexico 2-1 New Zealand | 2-1 |
| Jul 5, 2011 | Women’s World Cup | New Zealand 2-2 Mexico | 2-2 |
| Mar 2, 2010 | Cyprus Cup | New Zealand 0-3 Mexico | 0-3 |
Mexico’s recent dominance (unbeaten in three) sets a confident tone for the Juárez finale.
Mexico vs New Zealand Women’s Predicted XI Lineups
Mexico (4-3-3):
- Celeste Espino, Kenti Robles, Rebeca Bernal, Cristina Ferral, Jimena López, Nayeli Rangel, Montserrat Saldívar, Kiana Palacios, Jacqueline Ovalle, Alison González, Stephany Mayor.
New Zealand (4-3-3):
- Victoria Esson, C.J. Bott, Mackenzie Barry, Indiah-Paige Riley, Meikayla Moore, Katie Bowen, Gabi Rennie, Olivia Chance, Jacqui Hand, Hannah Wilkinson, Hannah Blake.
Projections based on first-leg rotations and squad announcements: López favors Ovalle’s creativity centrally, with Mendoza covering if Casárez sits; Mayne integrates Iro wide for fresh legs. Bench options like Soto (Mexico) and Riley (New Zealand) for impact.
Key Players
- Mexico: Lizbeth Ovalle – The Tigres midfielder’s vision (three assists, 1.9 key passes per game) orchestrated the opener; her set-piece delivery could unlock New Zealand’s compact shape.
- New Zealand: Katie Kitching – The midfielder’s tenacity (two goals in qualifiers) drives transitions; her battles in the engine room will counter Mexico’s press.
Mexico vs New Zealand Women’s Match Prediction
Mexico’s series momentum and home edge overpower New Zealand’s resolve in a competitive closer, with the Tri’s depth yielding a narrow victory to cap the friendlies positively. The Ferns grab a consolation but can’t overturn the deficit.
- Predicted score: Mexico 2-1 New Zealand. A goal-fest potential rises with rotations, highlighting attacking intent.
Where to Watch Mexico vs New Zealand Women’s in USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe
Stream Mexico vs New Zealand live with these women’s soccer options, curated for international audiences:
- USA: TUDN (Spanish) and ESPN+; also FuboTV. Starts 5:00 PM ET.
- Canada: DAZN Canada or OneSoccer for coverage. 5:00 PM ET kickoff.
- Australia: Optus Sport. Begins 8:00 AM AEDT (Monday, October 27).
- Europe: FIFA+ (free stream); Sky Sports; beIN Sports (Spain/France). EU: Viaplay (Nordics) or DAZN (Germany).