FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 Team Profile: Mexico

World Cup Appearances: Mexico has played in the World Cup twelve times (1930, 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1978, 1986, 1994, 1998, 2002). The 2006 World Cup will be their thirteenth appearance.

Best Finish: Mexico has made it into the quarterfinals of the World Cup twice (1970 and 1986).

Team Colors: Mexico wears green, red, and white.

Current FIFA World Soccer Ranking: Mexico is currently ranked fourth in the FIFA World Soccer Rankings. Although they have the talent to make a run deep in the tournament, very few soccer critics are even giving Mexico a chance of winning it all in 2006.

Key Players:
Oswaldo Sanchez: Sanchez has, arguably, been Mexico's top goalkeeper over the last decade. Due to some struggles and unlucky situations, Sanchez was forced to sit on the bench for many of Mexico's big international tournaments. Tragedy struck once again for Sanchez as his father passed away just before the World Cup. Sanchez should finally get the chance to display his goalkeeping abilities on a major stage when he starts for Mexico in the 2006 World Cup.

Jared Borgetti: Borgetti made his World Cup debut in the 2002 World Cup where he showed his incredible attacking ability. He will be the key to Mexico's offensive attack in the 2006 World Cup and should net a few goals in their opening matches. In 2005, Borgetti signed with the Bolton Wanderers of the English Premier League after playing in the Mexican First Division since 1994.

Claudio Suarez: Although Suarez was a surprise pick to even be on the roster for Mexico in the 2006 World Cup, his experience could be a huge factor in helping some of the less-experienced Mexican players. He has the most international appearances in the history of men's international play including playing for Mexico in the 1994 and 1998 World Cups.

Coach: Ricardo La Volpe coaches Mexico. He has been the coach since 2002. Between 1983 and 2002, La Volpe had coaching stints with several teams in the Mexican First Division.

Group Schedule: Mexico is in Group D with Iran, Angola, and Portugal. Mexico opens their World Cup on June 11 in Nuremburg against Iran. Their second game is on June 16 in Hanover against Angola. Mexico finishes up group play against Portugal on June 21 in Geisenkirchen.