The 2026 Men’s World Cup is mere weeks away and our Aussies are putting the finishing touches on their preparation, before attempting to make their mark on the world stage.

A key part of those preparations are friendly hit-outs against world class opposition. The first of these friendlies comes this weekend against World Cup co-hosts and the current 15th best team in the world – Mexico. 

El Tri as they are also known, one of the shortest-priced favourites to escape their group, meaning Australia will have their work cut out for them here.

However, Tony Popovic arrives to this encounter with a hardened squad blending European-based veterans and exciting youngsters like Nestory Irankunda and Mohamed Toure.

We expect to see a lot of rotation and different combinations as this is the final friendly before the Green and Gold squad is trimmed down to the final 26 who will participate in the World Cup.

This uncertainty of personnel and potential rotation makes this a hard one to predict, but we’re up to the task. 

For the latest betting tips and analysis ahead of this friendly, check out our Australia vs Mexico tips and predictions below.

Australia vs Mexico Predictions and Betting Tips

Head-to-Head Prediction

Mexico open as clear favourites at $1.60, and there is plenty of substance behind the price. Australia have shown they can grind out results against higher-ranked nations but breaking down a Mexico side with this much attacking firepower is a big ask. Australia at $5.00 offers value for upset hunters and patriots, which we are here. 

This is one of the most exciting Australian squads in some time and if Poppa can get his combinations right, they have the potential to upset nearly any nation in the world on their day. 

Betting tip: Australia.

Correct Score Prediction

Mexico are expected to dominate possession and chances, but Australia's defensive structure has consistently kept scorelines low. 

Still, both sides possess world-class attackers and should both be good for a goal or two. 

Betting tip: Australia 2-1. 

First Goal Prediction

Julian Quinones has been Mexico's most consistent attacking threat in the lead-up to the World Cup and he heads the first goalscorer market at $3.60. 

The Al-Qadsiah striker has been in red-hot form domestically, regularly getting on the end of crosses and cutbacks, and he is expected to start centrally with Raul Jimenez.

With Mexico likely to start on the front foot and pin Australia deep, Quinones should see early opportunities inside the box. He is the shortest-priced runner in the market for a reason, and at the price, he represents the most logical first goalscorer pick.

Betting tip: Julian Quinones.

*Odds are subject to change. 

Where to Watch Mexico vs Australia

The iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena will be the backdrop for this friendly between Australia vs Mexico. 

For those who can’t make it all the way out to Cali, the match will be live streamed on Paramount+. 

Australia vs Mexico Match Details

Date: Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Kick-off: 12:00pm AEST. 

Location: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, California.

Where to watch: Paramount+