World Cup: South Africa coach praises Mexico and cites altitude

South Africa coach Hugo Broos said his team is prepared to face the quality of Mexico and the advantage of playing in front of home fans in the opening match of the World Cup this Thursday (11), insisting that his players are ready to compete for every ball against the "strongest team" in the group.

"They play good football. They have very good players, capable of deciding a match. And playing in front of 85 thousand people gives them an extra boost", declared the coach.

Broos stated that the South Africans made a detailed analysis of Mexico and will not be intimidated by the occasion, adding that their players have also adapted to the city's altitude after arriving in advance.

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"Because of the altitude, we had to arrive a little earlier. We had 10 days, and I believe that 10 days are enough. In this aspect, I think we are ready", he said.

South Africa is in Group A alongside Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Korea. Broos said the opening match could be decisive for the team's chances of advancing to the next stage.

"In a group like this, it is very important to win the first game. If you don't win, you are already in a difficult situation", he concluded. For South Africa, this clash brings back its own memories. The team debuted at the 2010 World Cup against Mexico in Johannesburg, drawing 1-1 after Siphiwe Tshabalala scored one of the most memorable goals of that tournament.

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Broos also played in the 1986 World Cup for Belgium, when they faced the Mexicans in the group stage and finished the competition in fourth place. The hosts face South Africa this Thursday still looking for their first victory in an opening World Cup match, after seven previous attempts.

Midfielder Teboho Mokoena said South Africa wanted to build on the momentum while also looking to maximize their chances of reaching the knockout stages.

"We want to be competitive and see ourselves progressing to the next stage," said Mokoena. "We need to be here to enjoy the experience. When you go home, you shouldn't go back with regrets," he said.

See the ranking of the most valuable squads of the World Cup

Source: CNN