Mexico promise to deliver positive finale

England's players may bicker about the boredom of being confined to camp, but for Javier Aguirre, coach of Mexico, the 75 days he and his players have been together for has been all important in fashioning an approach that has taken them to the brink of the second round.

In fact Aguirre's positive outlook for a side that were beaten by England in a pre-tournament warm-up offers a telling contrast. "We've been working together now for about 75 days," he said. "We've always been enthusiastic. Judging by the players' behaviour on and off the pitch, I think we're doing very well. We're in good form. I don't have variables to measure the mood, the physical status and the footballing feeling of the team, but all the games we've played together, I've seen huge enthusiasm, all with a will and wish to win."

Like Uruguay, they only need a point to confirm their place in the knock-out stages. A draw would also see Uruguay finish top of Group A, but for Mexico that would mean a probable second-round encounter with Argentina. "The law of the Mexican side is to win," said Aguirre, whose side were impressive victors over France after drawing their first game with South Africa.

If he is true to his word, Aguirre may give a first start at the finals to Javier Hernandez, the young striker who will play for Manchester United next season. Hernandez came off the bench to score against France and with the Arsenal striker Carlos Vela injured and Guillermo Franco, until recently of West Ham, labouring, the "Little Pea" has a strong case.

What to look out for: Forlan's firepower

After a tight opening draw against France, Uruguay were more positive in their second game against South Africa with Diego Forlan impressing as part of a mobile three-pronged attack. "Forlan is an extraordinary player," said Aguirre. "He lives to score."