MEXICO midfielder Gerardo Torrado insists his team will "play to the death" to beat Argentina in Sunday's World Cup last-16 encounter at Soccer City in Johannesburg.
The 31-year-old issued a rallying cry to the rest of the squad after they made it through Group A on goal difference despite losing to Uruguay.
Mexico have a score to settle with Argentina as four years ago in Germany they were dumped out of the second round by a Maxi Rodriguez wonder goal in extra time.
However, Diego Maradona's side, who entered the tournament with doubts over their credentials after an unconvincing qualifying campaign, are a force to be reckoned with.
Three success victories in the group stage have elevated them back among the favourites to win the World Cup.
By contrast, Mexico have impressed in parts but still have yet to consistently deliver.
Torrado is wary of the threat Argentina pose but is looking forward to the match.
"We have an encounter ahead which we have to enjoy but we will play to the death to win it," he said.
"Against Uruguay we lacked determination but each squad has circumstances that make them unique. There are different factors.
"This game (against Argentina) is necessary to continue advancing and to follow our dream so we will not lack attitude."
Mexico are hopeful Arsenal striker Carlos Vela will be fit for the last-16 tie as he returned to training after missing the Uruguay defeat with an injury sustained in the victory over France a week ago.
The winners of the match will play the team which emerges victorious from England's tie against Germany, also on Sunday.
Mexico have a score to settle with Argentina as four years ago in Germany they were dumped out of the second round by a Maxi Rodriguez wonder goal in extra time.
However, Diego Maradona's side, who entered the tournament with doubts over their credentials after an unconvincing qualifying campaign, are a force to be reckoned with.
Three success victories in the group stage have elevated them back among the favourites to win the World Cup.
By contrast, Mexico have impressed in parts but still have yet to consistently deliver.
Torrado is wary of the threat Argentina pose but is looking forward to the match.
"We have an encounter ahead which we have to enjoy but we will play to the death to win it," he said.
"Against Uruguay we lacked determination but each squad has circumstances that make them unique. There are different factors.
"This game (against Argentina) is necessary to continue advancing and to follow our dream so we will not lack attitude."
Mexico are hopeful Arsenal striker Carlos Vela will be fit for the last-16 tie as he returned to training after missing the Uruguay defeat with an injury sustained in the victory over France a week ago.
The winners of the match will play the team which emerges victorious from England's tie against Germany, also on Sunday.
Copyright (c) Press Association
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