FRANCE 98 – General Media News Template

Quarter-finalists in 1970 and 1986 Mexico crashed out to Bulgaria on penalties in America four years ago after topping their first round group.

Their France 98 campaign has had its ups and downs, a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Honduras and 0-0 draws against the United States and Jamaica hardly giving their fans much to cheer about. But with Manuel Lapuente, Mexico’s new coach, steering the team to safer waters with success in the Gold Cup tournament in February hopes are increasing for a decent show in the finals.

While the boss may have changed there are still plenty of familiar faces from the last World Cup, adding vital experience to the side.

One such veteran is the colourful goalkeeper Jorge Campos, a small package with a big punch, another Mexico’s most capped player, Claudio Suarez.

The lightning pace of Ramon Ramirez could prove troublesome on the wing while in attack Lapuente can count on the likes of Benjamin Galindo, Carlos Hermosillo and Luis Roberto Alves Zague.

Hermosillo, who at 33 is no spring chicken, knocked in ten goals during the qualifiers and was part of Mexico’s team in 86 and 94. Another star ready to shine is Luis Hernandez, whose predatory nature in the penalty box is sure to ruffle opponents’ feathers.

Master tactician Lapuente meawnhile has come full circle, having coached Mexico for a 20-match period in 1990/91, losing only four games before being relieved of his duties after clashing with the federation.

A fruitful spell at Necaxa, where he had played as a striker, followed, with two league titles and a Copa Mexico falling at the club’s door between 1994 and 1997.