MEXICO CITY, July 4 (Xinhua) -- Mexico will need to play a flawless match if it is to beat England and advance to the World Cup quarterfinals, manager Javier Aguirre said on Saturday.
Aguirre said Sunday's round-of-16 clash at Mexico City Stadium would be his side's toughest test of the tournament.
"We're facing the world's fourth-ranked team in the FIFA rankings, the 1966 World Cup champion," Aguirre told a news conference.
"They have a great domestic league that feeds the national team. They are one of the best teams in the world, and we'll need to play a perfect match to beat them. We'll have to play even better than they do, and perhaps have a bit of luck too, because sometimes that helps in matches like these."
Mexico has yet to concede a goal in this tournament, having topped its group with three wins before beating Ecuador 2-0 in the round of 32.
England also headed its group with two wins and a draw, and advanced to the last 16 with a Harry Kane-inspired 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Aguirre dismissed suggestions England would struggle to cope with Mexico City's altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level.
"I'm putting that aside," the former Atletico Madrid, Japan and Egypt head coach said. "They're men and we're 11 against 11. We're 11 Mexicans who have to score."
"Historically, the English are very fast. It's true they have very important players, both at home and abroad. They are a very physically strong national team, but they also play good football. They changed under Gareth Southgate, and Thomas Tuchel has continued that.
This team can play in two ways: with long balls and physical, one-on-one duels, and if that doesn't work, they can play a different style."
Aguirre praised the attitude of his squad, noting that his players' selflessness had been crucial to the team's performances.
"We had very good preparation and enough time to choose players who wouldn't put their individual talent ahead of the team, who would leave their egos aside and be humble," he said.
"In that sense, with the unity we have with our supporters and families, we got the human side right. They are fully committed. You see them working and helping one another.
The 67-year-old, who is in his third spell as Mexico manager, added: "Even when they play in the same position, where players sometimes don't get along, that's not the case here. They all get along well and are willing to do whatever they can to help the team. They're all grounded by the support of their families." ■
