World Cup Preview - Group A - Mexico

Nickname: “El Tri”

Absurd FIFA ranking - 19th

Coach: El Tri veteran Miguel Herrera

Game Schedule:
June 13 – Mexico vs. Cameroon (12:00 p.m. EST, ESPN2)
June 17 – Mexico vs. Brazil (3:00 p.m., ESPN)
June 23 – Mexico vs. Croatia (4:00 p.m., ESPN)

Prospects: Mexico had an almighty struggle during the qualifying rounds this time around and nearly missed out on the tournament altogether for the first time in eons. Only a playoff win over the Kiwis allowed them safe passage. However, toward the end of qualifying, Mexico began to exhibit the signs of a sleeping giant again. They certainly have the talent in depth to be able to get out of Group A; however, the main question is whether gaffer Herrera will be able to get the best out of a temperamental bunch.

Key Player: Bayer Leverkusen's Andres Guardado has now dropped back into the left back channel but there is no disguising his attacking threat on the overlap and from set pieces. He may pop up with vital goals for Mexico this summer.

Youngster to watch: 24 year old defensive midfield Carlos Pena may just provide the defensive cover to be able to see El Tri through their treacherous last match against Croatia.

Who Will Get the Goals: Javier "Chicarito" Hernandez has been out of form and riding the bench for Manchester United all season, but he's a different player when he pulls on the green shirt. This tournament may present him with the opportunity to turn it on again.

Who Will Get the Cards: Thuggish center back Rafael Marquez has lost more than a step, which means he'll be even more likely to put the boot in when necessary.

Prediction: Narrowly edging out Croatia in the group stage before bowing out gracefully to finalists the Netherlands in the Round of 16.