JUAN: BRING ON THE GERMANS

MEXICO coach Juan Carlos Osorio says his team will relish the challenge of taking on the world champions today. Mexico face Germany this afternoon ready to rise to the test of facing Joachim Loew’s stars.

“It’s a great opportunity for Mexican soccer to compete against the current world champions,” Osorio said. “We think we can compete with them. I believe 100 per cent in our players.

“With our midfielders, we can compete for possession and have the possibility to match up against Germany.”

And the Germans are certainly expecting a tough battle with Julian Draxler wary of the threat from the Latin Americans. Draxler said: “Mexico are a strong and dangerous team who we should not underestimate – but if we put our qualities into play, I’m sure we’ll win.”