Mexico will return to action after winning the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup when they take on Japan in a friendly on Saturday.
A hard-fought 2-1 win over the USA in the final saw Mexico lift their record-extending 10th Gold Cup title in the summer. Now, they look to build momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
On the other hand, Japan won their third EAFF E-1 Football Championship in South Korea earlier this year, and are dominating their AFC World Cup qualifying group, where they are on the top of the rankings with 23 points after 10 games.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the weekly schedule.
Mexico vs. Japan live stream, TV channel
Here's how to watch this World Cup qualifier match in the U.S.:
- TV channel: Fox Deportes, TUDN USA, Univision, Vix
- Live stream: Fubo, Univision NOW, TUDN App
This match is available for live TV broadcast on Fox Deportes, TUDN USA, Univision, and Vix in Spanish. Streaming options are available on Fubo, Univision NOW, and the TUDN App, all in Spanish as well.
Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
What time does Mexico vs. Japan kick off?
This international friendly takes place at the Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, California and kicks off on Saturday, September 6 at 7:00 p.m. local time.
Here's how that time translates across the U.S.:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Eastern Time | Sat, Sep. 6 | 10:00 p.m. |
| Central Time | Sat, Sep. 6 | 9:00 p.m. |
| Mountain Time | Sat, Sep. 6 | 8:00 p.m |
| Pacific Time | Sat, Sep. 6 | 7:00 p.m |
Mexico vs. Japan lineups, team news
Hirving "Chucky" Lozano has been called back into the Mexico squad for the first time since early 2024, as he's been a key player for San Diego FC in MLS. However, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who was part of the Gold Cup squad this summer, was left out as he still has not found a club.
Monterrey striker German Berterame has been called up thanks to an explosive start to the season, while uncapped midfielder Juanjo Purata has been called in.
Gold Cup final starter Gilberto Mora is not with the group as he is part of the U-20 World Cup squad, along with Obed Vargas. Other prominent players left out include Gerardo Arteaga, Luis Romo, Luis Chavez, and Henry Martin. Forward Cesar Huerta withdrew due to an undisclosed injury.
Mexico predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Malagon (GK) — J. Sanchez, Montes, J. Vasquez, Gallardo — C. Rodriguez, Alvarez, M. Ruiz — Alvarado, Jimenez, Lozano
Japan have brought a full-strength squad to the United States for their pair of September friendlies, with European-based stars Wataru Endo, Takefusa Kubo, Kaoru Mitoma, Daichi Kamada, Daizen Maeda, and Takumi Minamino in tow.
Bayern Munich defender Hiroki Ito has been missing since March due to a fractured foot, while domestic-based midfielder Koki Kumasaka is still recovering from a torn ACL. Defender Tomoya Ando was called in but withdrew from the squad due to injury.
Japan predicted XI (3-4-3, right to left): Suzuki (GK) — Sugawara, Itakura, Seko — Takai, Endo, Tanaka, Nakamura — Kubo, Maeda, Kamada
International friendly schedule this week
All times ET
Saturday, September 6
- USA vs. Korea (5:00 p.m.)
- Mexico vs. Japan (10:00 p.m.)
Sunday, September 7
- Qatar vs. Russia (11:15 a.m.)