Last World Cup: Round of 16
Nickname: El Tri / Aztecs
Coach: Miguel “Piojo” Herrera
Star man: Javier Hernandez
Tournament best: Quarter-finals 1970, 1986

They needed the intercontinental play-offs to qualify, but routed New Zealand 9-3 on aggregate once there. A blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars - built around the focal point of Manchester United striker Hernandez - will make Mexico a dangerous proposition in Brazil.

Strengths: Leaving it late became something of a speciality for Mexico in qualifying where they scored over a third of their goals in the final 15 minutes of matches, which only three of the other 31 nations exceeded. They were also one of the more dangerous teams from corners and adept at defending long-range shots with just one such goal conceded.

Weaknesses: Mexico endured a frustrating qualifying campaign in which they failed to score in a third of their matches and didn't recover any points from losing positions, neither of which bode well against the tougher quality opposition they'll face in Brazil. All but two of the goals they conceded came in the closing half an hour, which should also be of concern.

Prospects: Finding a way past Brazil will be a challenge but there is plenty to hope for from their other two matches: Cameroon conceded half of their goals from corners and Croatia struggled for goals in qualifying. Late goals aren't likely to be much help against the Croatians though, who didn't concede any during their qualifiers.