FRANCE 98 – Belgium – G. Leekens: “The match against Mexico is vitally important”

Statement made in Cailloux-sur-Fontanes (69)

“The match on Saturday 20 June in Bordeaux, against MEXICO (Group E), is vitally important because they lead the group with three points. For me, the main question is whether MEXICO will settle for a draw or attempt to earn qualification as of Saturday.

I am preparing my 22 players without knowing exactly the final line-up. A few uncertainties remain: Filip DE WILDE’s (1) muscle strain should be healed and Marc WILMOTS (7) should be 100% on form. All 22 players must be ready. I’m adapting my tactics because of injuries, although the three-substitute rule is a big problem.

MEXICO is still a very technical team, very talented and experienced, despite having a young defence. Luis HERNANDEZ is very creative. As for Cuauhtemoc BLANCO (11), I was very impressed by his technical skill against KOREA REPUBLIC (Group E) during the previous match. I hope he will be as successful against the NETHERLANDS (Group E).