Mexico reached the round of 16 in each of the previous seven World Cups, but risks being knocked out of the group stage if they fail to beat Saudi Arabia. Asked if he was concerned about the team’s lack of attack, Martino told reporters on Tuesday: “Right now it’s more important because we need goals tomorrow.”
“Some of our forwards arrived with physical problems, but I am convinced that, just as defensive problems are not exclusive to defenders, attacking and goal problems are not exclusive to forwards.” “What happens at both ends of the field depends on the whole team,” added the coach.
What happens at both ends of the pitch is up to the whole team.
Pessimism has surrounded Mexico as they prepare for the World Cup after their inconsistency in qualifying and warm-up matches, while fans have also criticized the Argentine manager, who is under immense pressure.
Midfielder Andrés Guardado said the players believe they have a chance of qualifying for the round of 16. “We are professionals and we have gone out of our way to experience these moments, to be in a World Cup. We have an opportunity to reverse the situation and we are going to try until the end.” Saudi Arabia delivered a big surprise by beating Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in the first game, but Martino said he is not afraid of the Arab team.
We have an opportunity to reverse the situation and we will try until the end
“What we do against Arabia we have already prepared and trained. We are not going to use schemes for which the players do not have the tools to carry them out.”