Mexico wins in first Pre-Copa América friendly against Bolivia

Using much of the under-23 squad, Lozano used only three of his provisional Copa América squad (Julio González, Alexis Peña, Andrés Montaño) as Mexico edged to a 1-0 win over Bolivia.

The friendly was set to be a valuable experience for Mexico's young stars. Facing a Bolivia side that will also be at the Copa América this summer, manager Antonio Carlos Zago fielded a strong team as they prepare to compete in a group that includes the United States, Uruguay, and Panamá.

Many of those expected to feature for the Mexican national team this summer are getting some much-needed rest before participating in the pre-tournament friendlies. It is anticipated that more of the provisional team will take part in the upcoming match against Uruguay, and definitely in the final friendly against Brazil.

The goal came just seconds after the start of the second half. Ricardo Monreal of Necaxa pressed heavily on the Bolivian defence, gaining possession on the byline. He then delivered an inch-perfect pass to Tijuana winger Efraín Álvarez, who took a composed touch in the box to outsmart the onrushing Bolivian defender Jose Sagredo and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner of the net.

The rest of the game remained rather quiet as Mexico's young guns kept a clean sheet, with the help of Pumas' González who was called upon to make a number of solid saves as the 33-year-old puts his hat in the ring to claim that #1 spot this summer.

Next up for Mexico is Uruguay on Tuesday, June 4th. This match represents a step up in quality for Lozano's side as they face an in-form Uruguay, led by Marcelo Bielsa, who currently sit second in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualification group, only behind Argentina.