By Rafael

1) Diego Reyes had an improved performance.

Diego Reyes compensated for a below-average game on Saturday with an improved performance against Paraguay on Tuesday. There was a missed tackle here and there, but the FC Porto defender looked a lot less limited on the defense.Given his few minutes with the Portuguese side, it makes senses as to why he would struggle. Moreover, the sweeper position is one he hasn’t played in years.

Today’s performance, however, may indicate that he just needs regular playing time. In addition, Miguel Herrera announced he wouldn’t mind having the young Mexican defender play both the Gold Cup and Copa America. At least with Miguel Herrera, Diego Reyes is one of his favored men.

2) Jonathan Dos Santos was impressive.

With six players missing for El Tri after Saturday’s friendly, Jonathan Dos Santos seemed to be the most sensible option for player to watch against Paraguay. Jonathan didn’t disappoint, and the younger of the Dos Santos brothers responded brilliantly.

Miguel Herrera opted to play with three defensive minded midfielders, with Jonathan being the only player with any real attacking impetus. The support Juan Carlos Medina and Javier Guemez provided really helped Jonathan Dos Santos push forward and disrupt Paraguay’s defensive line. Furthermore, Mexico’s midfield looked a lot more balanced on the defensive side of things. It was a complete performance from Jonathan.

3) It is uncertain who will prevail as backup for Layun.

The debate over who should be Miguel Layun’s backup is not one that makes the airwaves often, but it may be one of the biggest questions marks for Miguel Herrera going forward. In truth, Jorge Torres Nilo wasn’t bad on Tuesday, but he wasn’t great. He didn’t have the impact that you’d expect from an attacking wing-back, but he defended well. On the other hand, Adrian Aldrete also got to play on the left, but there wasn’t enough time to judge his effectiveness. When you add Miguel Angel Ponce into the mix, it is unclear who we may see at the Copa America or as Layun’s backup.

4) Jesus Dueñas is one player that earned a second chance.

Jesus Dueñas put in an admirable performance at right wing-back on Tuesday. His best position may be in the midfield, but he showed he can play just as well on the wing. While he didn’t offer as much attacking projection as Paul Aguilar, Dueñas played with confidence and never looked like a liability on the field. He showed just the right aggression and passed the ball well. He justified himself another call to the national team.

5) Today’s game left a good impression.

It was not quite so much the goal fest we all wanted, but it was a secure performance from El Tri. It is important to be realistic, after all, a lot of these players will likely not be starters come the Gold Cup. If anything, this could be the base for the team Mexico takes to the Copa America in Chile. To get a result against Paraguay’s strongest team is nothing to be ashamed of. For most of the encounter, Mexico created a concentrated environment at the defense, and players like Jonathan Dos Santos showed some of their offensive talents. One wonders how a team like this will do come June, but after today’s performance, the thought isn’t as intimidating.