Mexico have tasted Confederations Cup glory once before when they took the trophy in 1999 with a 4-3 win over Brazil on home soil.

It will be difficult but not impossible for "El Tri" to emulate that great win with Ricardo Lavolpe's side hitting their stride in their World Cup qualifiers. Mexico are unbeaten in their World Cup qualifiers but with Brazil on the horizon in the extremely tight Group B, along with European champs Greece and Asia's top team Japan, they will have to be at their very best to win the cup this year.

The flag bearers of the North/Central American and Caribbean Confederation have pledged to bring a full strength side to Germany but could fall foul of the closing stages of the Mexican championship. (nda)