Mexico and the curse of the World Cup

Mexico are striving to break the barrier that they have created, and reach at least the quarter-finals this year. Juan Carlos Osorio's side are aiming to sneak into the top tour in order to try and qualify for the title.

However, the Mexican squad have not managed to reach the quarter-finals of the tournament since 1986 at home. From that point onwards, they have been eliminated in the second round for six consecutive World Cups.

Edson Alvarez told reporters at a press conference: ''We are going match-by-match, step-by-step and we cannot get ahead of ourselves. The group is calm, we are solid, we can take this opportunity to progress and try to reach the final.''

As for coach Osorio's view, he said: ''I think that elimination has always been a reality, not a curse, we have gone as far as possible, but the last real chance was that famous Rafa Marquez penalty to Arjen Robben.''

The Mexico manager is adamant that there are no mental challenges to overcome, and that his side will fight to get to the final rounds and be among the best at the World Cup.