Gerardo Martino used Mexico's first Concacaf Nations League game to experiment with his side and give a couple of inexperienced players a chance at the international stage. Mexico is expected to sweep through Group B in League A and grab one of the semifinal spots of the tournament next year. The player who made the most of his chance was 20-year-old José Juan Macías, who scored two goals in El Tri's 5-1 rout of Bermuda on the road. 

The first round of the Concacaf Nations League brought incredible individual performances, upstart teams, and a whole lot more to the first competition that features all 41 member associations in the federation. Now it's time for another round, as over 30 games go down in the October FIFA international break. 

Rewind the tape to last September, when the USA and Mexico faced off in a friendly in Nashville. Tyler Adams helped the USMNT grab a 1-0 victory under the guidance of interim manager Dave Sarachan. What might be most memorable from that game, though, was the towering center back Matt Miazga reminding Mexican youngster Diego Lainez just how much shorter the then 18-year-old was than Miazga.

It seems like a lifetime ago that the mood surrounding the Mexican national team was one of uncertainty and cynicism as new head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino was faced with several obstacles in his first months at the helm. 

There's a clear favorite In Group B of League A in the first-ever Concacaf Nations League. But while there should no surprise if Mexico wins the group, Bermuda and Panama might provide some intrigue as the teams look to avoid relegation to League B.

The generation of Mexican players who are just on the cusp of nearing the end of their international careers has been some of the best ever to suit up for El Tri. Javier Hernandez is the country's all-time leading goal scorer, while Guillermo Ochoa is one of the best-ever keepers in the history of Concacaf. Even Carlos Vela, who isn't quite as beloved by fans of the national team, has had a stellar club career over in Europe and in MLS with Los Angeles FC.

Just around the corner, the Concacaf Nations League tournament hits the group stage for the first installment of the tournament. After the qualifying stage that took place at the end of 2018 and the beginning of 2019, the 41 teams in the region have been split up into three leagues, with group play starting during next month's international break. 

Right place, right time.

In step with the Concacaf Legends series, FloFC is also running features on up-and-coming Concacaf stars under 22 years old.