CARSON, Calif. – Mexico will look to book their ticket to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia this week with two massive matches against Panama and Costa Rica.
LA Galaxy stars Giovani dos Santos and Jonathan dos Santos were among the 25 players called into Juan Carlos Osorio’s squad for a pair of World Cup qualifiers against Panama on Sept. 1 and Costa Rica on Sept. 5. Mexico can qualify for Russia outright with a victory over Panama and a Honduras loss or draw against Trinidad and Tobago.
Whether Mexico lock down their World Cup berth on Friday or not, Jonathan dos Santos says both games are crucial for Osorio’s squad.
“These games are vital. I've said that when we play at home, we cannot lose a game or a point,” he said. “We will play to our full potential against Panama to win as well as Costa Rica.”
Both players will be eager to get back into gear with their nation after struggling during the Galaxy's recent winless streak. For Jonathan, it will be vital to be at his best as he looks to help his country qualify for the World Cup.
“I will try to contribute everything to the national team," he said. "I will try to help my teammates just like they help me. I will give my full effort like I always do when I'm with the national team.”
